Do I need an injection after a dog scratch
What to Do If a Dog Scratches You
Many people know about cat scratch fever, but can a dog scratch be just as dangerous? Although you are less likely to contract severe illness from a dog scratch, there is still a possibility of it happening. If you are scratched by a dog, heres what you need to know.
Potential Infections Can Occur from a Dog Scratch
Dogs walk on all four feet and dig in whatever they can find, which means dog nail beds are very dirty. They can harbor all sorts of bacteria and fungi that can readily infect humans through broken skin, including tetanus. Dogs also lick their paws, transferring bacteria from the mouth onto the nails. This can, in rare cases, infect humans with MRSA or bacteria called Capnocytophaga if the scratch breaks the skin.
What About Rabies?
Can I get rabies from a dog scratch? is a popular online search. Even though it is highly unlikely that a human will contract rabies from an animal scratch, it can still happen. The virus that causes rabies is spread through contact with saliva or brain tissue from an animal infected with rabies, but it cannot penetrate unbroken skin. If a rabid dog with saliva-covered nails scratches a human, theoretically infection can occur; however, most dogs are vaccinated against rabies and are not at risk for infection. If your dog has had contact with a rabid animal, take additional precautions and seek veterinary care immediately.
How to Treat a Dog Scratch
Animal scratches may seem harmless, but they can turn into serious infections if the skin is broken. Puncture wounds may look the least serious, but they carry the highest risk of severe infection. If the scratch is bleeding heavily, apply pressure with a clean towel until the bleeding has stopped. Once the bleeding has subsided, wash the wound thoroughly with soap and water for three minutes. Clean and dry the skin, and then apply a small amount of antibiotic ointment and cover the wound with a bandage. Make sure to check the scratch for signs of infection, which include increased heat, redness, swelling, pain or red streaking on the skin. Monitor the wound for at least 72 hours, and if you experience any of those symptoms, seek the attention of a medical professional immediately.
WRITTEN BY
Sarah Wooten, DVMVeterinarian
Dr. Sarah Wooten graduated from UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine in 2002. A member of the American Society of Veterinary Journalists,...
Do you need a tetanus shot for a dog scratch? A Step-by-Step Guide
What to Do:
- the wound is on the face, neck, hand, foot, or near a joint
- the wound wont stop bleeding after 10 minutes of direct pressure
- the wound appears to be deep, large, or severe
- the attacking animal was stray or wild or behaving strangely
- the bite or scratch has pus coming from it, or becomes red, hot, swollen, or increasingly painful
- your child has a weakened immune system or other medical condition that might make an infection more likely
- your childs tetanus immunizations are not up to date
Teach your children to stay away from strange animals, and not to tease or provoke any animals, even family pets. Animals should not be disturbed while they are eating or sleeping.
If you own a pet, make sure its properly immunized and licensed.
Signs of an infection from a scratch wound
While your dog scratch wound heals, look for the following possible signs of an infection:
See a doctor if you notice any signs of infection from a dog scratch.
Some dogs carry a bacteria in their mouths called Capnocytophaga. While these bacteria rarely spread to people, theres still a chance of getting sick from exposure to an animals saliva, especially if you have a weakened immune system.
Capnocytophaga infections can progress quickly, even becoming life-threatening. Possible symptoms related to this type of infection include:
Call or visit a doctor if youre experiencing any signs of infection post-dog scratch. Its also a good idea to seek medical attention any time youve been scratched by a dog especially if the dog isnt your own.
In the case of a dog bite, you should seek medical care to rule out the risk of rabies and other potentially life-threatening diseases.
Rabies is a type of viral infection that can occur when bitten by an animal thats infected. This is a serious infection that can be fatal in both animals and humans, due to the viruss attack on the nervous system.
While animal-to-animal transmission is possible, its not as common for humans to be infected by household pets in the United States. Part of this reduced risk is attributed to rabies vaccines in domesticated animals.
Still, rabies ought to be considered in the case of a serious wound from a dog, particularly if its a stray dog or one who hasnt been vaccinated against rabies. The virus may be transmitted through an infected dogs saliva from biting or accidental scratching.
Can you get tetanus from dog scratch?
Potential Infections Can Occur from a Dog Scratch
Dogs walk on all four feet and dig in whatever they can find, which means dog nail beds are very dirty. They can harbor all sorts of bacteria and fungi that can readily infect humans through broken skin, including tetanus.
When to get a Tetanus Shot | Can you get Tetanus from a Scratch
Animal bites and scratches are extremely common, although often overlooked in terms of potential severity. Even a minor bite or scratch from an animal of any kind can become infected with bacteria that may be harmful, occasionally leading to serious complications. While scratches and bites may not look angry or infected, this is not to say that they dont come along with plenty of risksincluding the risk of tetanus.
As one might expect, animal bites and scratches can occur at any time and are highly dependent upon circumstance. Dog bites, for example, are common and account for 98% of rabies cases reported worldwide. Cat scratches and bites are equally common, and despite what many may think, theyre actually more likely to result in infection than dog bites.
Finally, scratches and bites from wild animals such as raccoons, coyotes, skunks, foxes and batsall of which are cause for concernoccur regularly and should always be addressed by a medical professional no matter how mild or severe they may be.
Symptoms of animal bites and scratches can vary quite dramatically depending upon the severity of the incident. These may include the following:
The first step in diagnosing an animal bite or scratch is for you and your treating provider to have a discussion about exactly how the injury happened. From there, an approach to treatment will be discussed. The wound will most commonly be cleaned and dressed to avoid any potential for infection (wounds missing skin or those that are particularly deep may require special dressings). Stitches may also be employed if necessary. Antibiotics may be prescribed to reduce the risk of infection.
In the case that the affected person is not up to date on their tetanus shot, a vaccine may be administered as a prophylactic.
Children who experience symptoms after suffering an animal bite or scratch should be seen by a treating provider as soon as possible after the injury. For children that have not been vaccinated, a tetanus shot may be provided.
At ConvenientMD, we encounter animal bites and scratches numerous times each and every day. While many can be treated quickly and efficiently, complications do arise and can only be avoided when injuries are addressed as soon as possible. If you or a family member has been bitten or scratched, were here to help.
Ready to get treated? Just stop into any of our convenient urgent care locations in New Hampshire, Maine, and Massachusettsyoull never need to make an appointment ahead of time.
Is a tetanus shot necessary after being scratched by a dog?
Introduction: Tetanus Shot and Dog Scratches
Getting scratched by a dog can be a painful and scary experience. Apart from the pain, it is important to consider the possibility of tetanus infection. Tetanus is a serious bacterial infection that affects the nervous system and can be fatal if left untreated. One of the most effective ways to prevent tetanus infection is by getting a tetanus shot. However, not all dog scratches require a tetanus shot, and it is important to understand when it is necessary.
Understanding Tetanus and Its Causes
Tetanus is caused by a bacterium called Clostridium tetani. The bacteria can enter the body through a wound or scratch, and produces a toxin that affects the nervous system. Tetanus is not contagious and cannot be transmitted from person to person. The bacteria can survive for a long time in soil and animal feces, making it common in rural areas.
How Tetanus Spreads in the Body
Tetanus bacteria enter the body through a wound or scratch and produce a toxin that affects the nervous system. The toxin causes muscle stiffness and spasms, which can be fatal if left untreated. The bacteria do not spread from person to person, and a tetanus infection does not provide immunity to future infections.
What Happens When a Dog Scratches You?
When a dog scratches you, the skin is broken, which can allow bacteria to enter the body. The severity of the scratch and the likelihood of tetanus infection depends on several factors, including the depth of the wound, the location of the wound, and the cleanliness of the wound. If the wound is deep, in a high-risk area such as the head or neck, or if the dog has not been vaccinated against tetanus, the risk of infection is higher.
The Risk of Tetanus Infection from Dog Scratches
The risk of tetanus infection from a dog scratch is relatively low, but it is still important to take precautions. If the wound is deep or contaminated with dirt or animal feces, the risk is higher. The risk is also higher if the dog has not been vaccinated against tetanus. It is important to clean the wound thoroughly and monitor it for signs of infection.
Symptoms of Tetanus Infection
Symptoms of tetanus infection may include muscle stiffness, spasms, and pain, particularly in the jaw and neck. Other symptoms may include fever, sweating, and rapid heartbeat. If left untreated, tetanus infection can be fatal.
Treatment for Tetanus Infection
Treatment for tetanus infection typically involves a combination of antibiotics and antitoxins to stop the spread of the bacteria and neutralize the toxin. In severe cases, the patient may require hospitalization and respiratory support.
How to Prevent Tetanus Infection after a Dog Scratch
The best way to prevent tetanus infection after a dog scratch is to clean the wound thoroughly with soap and water. If the wound is deep or contaminated, it may be necessary to seek medical attention. It is also important to ensure that the dog is vaccinated against tetanus.
When to Get a Tetanus Shot after a Dog Scratch
If you have not had a tetanus shot in the past 10 years or cannot remember when your last shot was, it is recommended to get a tetanus shot after a dog scratch. If the wound is deep or contaminated, it is important to seek medical attention and follow the advice of a healthcare professional.
What to Expect During a Tetanus Shot
A tetanus shot involves injecting a vaccine that contains a small amount of the tetanus toxin. The vaccine helps the body build immunity to the toxin and can prevent tetanus infection. The shot is typically given in the upper arm and may cause some discomfort or soreness.
Risks and Side Effects of Tetanus Shot
Like all vaccines, there is a risk of side effects with a tetanus shot. Common side effects may include soreness, redness, and swelling at the injection site. More serious side effects are rare but may include allergic reactions.
Conclusion: Tetanus Shot and Dog Scratches
Getting a tetanus shot after a dog scratch is an important precaution to take to prevent tetanus infection. While the risk of infection is relatively low, it is important to understand the risks and take steps to prevent infection. If you are unsure whether you need a tetanus shot after a dog scratch, it is recommended to seek medical advice.
