HomeAnswersPulmonology (Asthma Doctors)dog biteShould I be concerned about rabies if a vaccinated pet dog caught my thigh, despite no visible wounds or scratches?

Can woundless and scratchless encounter with a vaccinated pet dog cause rabies infection in an individual?

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The following is an actual conversation between an iCliniq user and a doctor that has been reviewed and published as a Premium Q&A.

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Published At October 16, 2022
Reviewed AtJuly 20, 2023

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

I had a bothersome encounter with a vaccinated pet dog 45 days ago. The dog caught on my thigh, and I was wearing jeans; I cross-checked if the jeans were torn and checked for any scratches or wounds. But there was no wounds or scratch. However, I visited a physician, and he mentioned since it is not direct contact, there is nothing to worry about. He injected a tetanus toxoid (TT) and told me to observe the dog for two weeks. The dog is doing fine, but I am a bit scared since I had dog bites twice in the past (I was fully vaccinated). For the past two days, I have had mild pain and itching in the same area the dog had caught. Kindly let me know if I need to revisit the hospital and take the vaccine again. Thank you.

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com. I can understand your concern. No need to worry about rabies and you do not have to take any vaccinations. Nothing will happen. So do not worry. I hope I have solved your query. I will be happy to help you further. Thanks and regards.

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

Thank you for your reply. That is a relief. Thank you.

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com. May I know why are you worried about rabies? Is there a history of rabies in the family or in the past? Kindly follow up with the answer. Take care.

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

Thank you for your reply. Two of my cousins died from rabies, so whenever a dog touches me, I get anxious. I got vaccinated twice in the past when a stray dog licked my toes, and I did not want to risk my life. But this time, it was a pet dog, and I was aware that it had caught my thigh, but due to my experience in the past, I was scared. The doctor I visited told me if the dog lives for three weeks, it is not infected with rabies. But still, I am worried, especially in the last two days when the pain started in the same leg. This worries me more. Please give your suggestions.

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com. I can understand your concern. No need to worry about rabies. I hope this helps you. Take care.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Dr. Kaushal Bhavsar
Dr. Kaushal Bhavsar

Pulmonology (Asthma Doctors)

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