Will a scabbed wound become infected if licked by a puppy?
Feb 09, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Li Feng
Introduction
A scabbed wound licked by a puppy generally will not get infected. A scabbed wound is usually fully healed, and localized scar tissue may form. If licked by a puppy that does not carry the rabies virus, the virus cannot penetrate into the skin to cause rabies. During the healing process of a scabbed wound, avoid picking at the scab with your hands to prevent scarring.
A scabbed wound licked by a puppy generally does not lead to infection.
Scabbed wounds are usually fully healed, although local scar tissue may form. If a puppy licks such a wound and the puppy is not carrying the rabies virus, the virus cannot penetrate the skin and cause rabies. However, if the scab has cracks exposing underlying tissue and is licked by a puppy that carries the rabies virus, there is a risk of rabies infection. Infection occurs only if there is bleeding from the wound; without bleeding, transmission will not occur, and this situation does not constitute a level 2 or level 3 exposure to rabies.
Rabies is an infectious disease typically transmitted through bites from animals such as cats or dogs. If bitten, it's best to receive the rabies vaccine within 24 hours. If a puppy licks a scabbed wound and bleeding occurs, medical treatment should be sought. Administration of rabies immunoglobulin and the rabies vaccine can help prevent rabies virus infection.
During the healing process with scab formation, avoid picking at the scab with hands to prevent scarring. Under a doctor’s guidance, the wound can be cleaned with iodine tincture to promote healing and facilitate faster shedding of the scab.
