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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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Suggest Treatment After A Dog Scratch Wound

Yesterday I visited a friend who has two dogs, a cat and a parrot in a cage. I do not go there often, but I felt familiar enough to go in and welcome her two dogs affectionately welcoming me. The trouble began when I sat down on the couch. A piece of cookie popped out from the cushions - it had gotten lodged in there. The two dogs instantly fought over this cookie. I was in the middle of the two of them and no way could do anything, except to try to hold one of the dogs from the other and in doing so I was scratched in two places where the skin broke. I went to my Pharmacist and she said since it was NOT a dog bite, the only concern was infection. I have been cleansing it with antiseptic wipes and then putting medication on it. There is no more bleeding. I have a pool therapy class next wednesday. Should I cancel it? I do not wish to further infect it. It seems to be ok - no red streaks and no pus. If I can, I will go to the clinic Monday to have it looked at. Have I done the right thing?
posted on Wed, 27 May 2015
Twitter Mon, 1 Feb 2021 Answered on
Twitter Tue, 2 Feb 2021 Last reviewed on
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General & Family Physician 's  Response
Hi,

Even if there is no bite, just scratch, still you should not take a chance. You are advised to complete a course of anti-rabies vaccine. Also, a single dose of injection Tetanus Toxoid and a course of antibiotic should also be given.

Take care. Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further.

Regards,
Dr. Satnarain Bansal, General & Family Physician
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Suggest Treatment After A Dog Scratch Wound

Hi, Even if there is no bite, just scratch, still you should not take a chance. You are advised to complete a course of anti-rabies vaccine. Also, a single dose of injection Tetanus Toxoid and a course of antibiotic should also be given. Take care. Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further. Regards, Dr. Satnarain Bansal, General & Family Physician