Can a dog's claws cause rabies? Get the answer from a doctor

We all know that there is a risk of rabies from a dog bite. These days we are hearing a lot about such cases. But, can rabies be caused by a dog's claws? Let's find out from the experts.

Dogs have been kept in our homes for a long time. You will also see many dogs on the streets around us. Of course, dogs and humans have been associated with each other for a long time. But, if a dog bites, it is not right to ignore it. Nowadays, many cases of dog bites are coming to the fore. There is a risk of rabies due to dog bite. But, can rabies occur even if a dog's paw pricks you? Let's know from the experts. Dr. K. Seshi Kiran, Senior Consultant General Physician, Yashoda Hospitals, Hyderabad (Somajiguda) is giving information about this.

Is there a risk of spreading rabies from dog claws?

• Experts say that the dog's paws do not contain the rabies virus. However, if the saliva of a dog with rabies comes in contact with its paws, there is a risk of infection in some rare cases.
• Dogs often lick their paws. In such a situation, if a person's skin is peeled and the nails smeared with the saliva of a rabid dog touch it, then there is a risk of the person getting infected.
• There have been several cases where rabies has been transmitted due to dog claw scratches.
• Usually, dog bites are considered to be the cause of rabies spread. However, if a dog is not vaccinated and its paw is dirty with its saliva and it hits a person's peeled or cut skin with this paw, then the virus can spread.
• Experts say that the risk of contracting rabies from a dog's claws is quite low. However, it cannot be completely ignored.
• Let us tell you that a person can get rabies even from minor scratches and rubbing. Especially if the dog is mad and the person's skin is damaged.
• Not vaccinating street dogs could be the main reason for this.

• If you get bitten by a dog's claws and your skin gets peeled off, immediately wash the wound with running water and soap for at least 15 minutes.
• Use an antiseptic such as alcohol or iodine. Seek medical attention immediately. Prophylaxis (vaccination, sometimes immunoglobulin) may be necessary after exposure to rabies, especially if the dog is unvaccinated or appears ill.

This is the opinion of experts

• If your dog has been bitten by a street dog or a sick dog or you are not aware whether your dog has been vaccinated, then definitely take him to a doctor.
• Even if there is no blood and only the skin is peeled, there is still a risk of spreading rabies.

Image Credit: Freepik