If you are a pet parent, especially owning a dog, you will get scratches from your fur baby many times while playing or grooming. Many people get worried when their dog scratches them, but are dog nail scratches really dangerous and what are the risks associated with it? Here we will discuss all the details related to dog nail scratches, risks, treatments, etc.

What are the risks associated with dog nail scratches?

Dogs scratch everywhere and anywhere, which means their paws are always dirty. When they scratch you with their nails, they can transfer various kinds of bacteria into your skin. Dog nail scratches can cause:

Bacterial infection : Dog nail scratches can cause bacteria to transfer from the nail to your skin and cause bacterial infections. Usually, the Pasteurella multocida and Staphylococcus aureus bacterial infections occur after dog nail scratches.
Skin irritation and Allergies: Dog nail scratches can cause skin irritation or allergies which can lead to swelling, and redness. Germs on dog’s nail beds can cause allergic reactions.
Zoonotic Diseases: Many times, some zoonotics diseases such as Tetanus, can also occur after dog scratches, however, it happens in rare cases.

How to treat a Dog Scratch at home?

After a dog scratch, you must immediately follow some tips to avoid infections:

Wash : Put the scratched site under running water and watch using a mild soap. Don’t rub vigorously otherwise you may find skin irritation. Wash continuously for at least 5 minutes. Pat dry the wounded area with a clean towel. It will help you remove all the dirt and bacteria from the wound.
Stop Bleeding : If the wound is bleeding, put a cotton gauze pad on it and apply pressure with your finger. This will stop bleeding and promote clotting on the wounded site. Hold the cotton gauge for a few minutes until you are sure the bleeding has stopped. Don’t remove the pad immediately as it can restart bleeding. If blood is still oozing out, you must visit the doctor immediately.
Apply Ointment : You can apply any antibacterial cream on the wound to prevent bacterial infection and allow quick healing. Apply it directly on the wound as per the instructions mentioned on the label of ointment.
Cover the wound: Use a sterile bandage to cover the wound to avoid further contamination. Don’t tie the bandage too tight but make sure it covers the wound completely.

Signs of infection

If you notice the following signs, there is a high chance that you have caught the infection. Visit the doctor immediately if you find the below-listed signs on the scratch:

If the wound or surrounding area becomes swollen and red, it’s a sign of infection.
Red streaks arising from the wound to other parts mean the infection is spreading to other locations.
Fever, redness, swelling, or pus
Pus indicates that severe infection is happening.
Weakness or unusual fatigue

If you notice any of the above-listed symptoms after a dog nail scratch, you must not delay visiting the doctor. You need urgent medication to prevent infection from growing more.

Can dog nail scratches cause Rabies?

If an infected animal scratches or bites you, there are chances of getting rabies infection. The rabies virus affects the neurological system and is fatal for both humans and animals.

If a street dog which is not vaccinated scratches you, chances are high that you get the rabies infection. However, if the dog is vaccinated, you are not at risk of rabies.

How to prevent risks associated with Dog nail scratches?

There are various measures to adopt to reduce the risk associated with dog nail scratches:

Everytime you feed or play with your dog, make sure to wash hands properly with a good soap or hand wash.
Trim your dog’s nails regularly to prevent scratching accidents.
If a dog has scratched you, wash it properly and put bandages.
Take your dog for rabies vaccination on time to lower the risk of rabies infection.
Don’t let your dog get in contact with any unvaccinated dog.

When to see a Doctor?

Usually, dog nail scratches heal on their own but there are certain situations that need medical attention. You must visit the doctor if you find the following signs:

Deep or Puncture wounds : If a dog has scratched you very deep and the skin has punctured, you must go to the doctor for medication and bandage.
No improvement : If there is no improvement even after a few days, you must visit the doctor to check any infection growth in the wound.
Know medical disorders : If you are already dealing with other medical issues such as a weak immune system, diabetes, etc. you must immediately seek medical attention to avoid further complications.

Conclusion

Dog nail scratches are usually not dangerous but you must not ignore them. If a dog scratches you with nails, you must wash it and apply antibacterial cream. Also, if you find the symptoms are not improving, you must visit the doctor immediately for proper medication. As a pet parent, you must keep your pet well-vaccinated on time to prevent fatal infections such as rabies.

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FAQs

1) What should I do if my dog’s nails scratch me?

In case you have a dog nail scratch, you must immediately wash it properly using a mild soap, apply ointment, and cover the wound to prevent further infection. Regularly monitor the wound for swelling or redness.

2) Is there any chance of getting Rabies after a dog nail scratch?

Yes, if the dog is not vaccinated, there is a high chance of catching the rabies infection.

3) Is it a matter of concern if the dog scratches me?

Usually dog scratch is not a serious matter, but if you find the wound too deep, swelling or redness, you must visit the doctor.

4) Should I get a Tetanus injection after a dog scratch?

Yes, it’s better to take a Tetanus injection just after getting a dog nail scratch.

5) In what case should I worry after a dog nail scratch?

In case the dog is not vaccinated, or you find swelling, redness or fever after nail scratch, you must take it seriously.