Dog owners should pay attention. Rabies vaccines are required in different situations when bitten or scratched by dogs

· For Dogs: Ensure your dog is vaccinated against rabies. Rabies vaccinations for pets are often required by law in many countries. They not only protect the dog but also act as a barrier between wild rabies sources and humans.

· For Humans: If you're traveling to or living in an area where rabies is endemic, consider getting pre-exposure prophylaxis (a rabies vaccination) for yourself, especially if you'll be in close contact with animals.

· Immediate Care: Wash the wound thoroughly with soap and water for at least five minutes. Apply an antiseptic.

· Seek Medical Attention: Always consult a medical professional after being bitten or scratched by an animal, especially if the animal's rabies vaccination status is unknown or if the animal was behaving strangely.

· Post-exposure Prophylaxis (PEP): If there's a risk that the animal might have rabies, you might be advised to start PEP, which is a series of rabies vaccinations to prevent the onset of symptoms and the progression of the disease.

· If a pet dog bites someone and its rabies vaccination status is up-to-date, the animal is typically observed for signs of rabies for 10 days. If it remains healthy during this period, it wasn't shedding the rabies virus at the time of the bite.

· If the dog's vaccination status is unknown or if it's overdue for a shot, the decision might be made to quarantine the animal or, in some cases, euthanize and test it for rabies.

Always report animal bites to local health or animal control authorities. This helps monitor potential outbreaks and ensures proper recommendations are followed.

Ensure that your dog is well-trained and socialized to minimize the chances of aggressive behavior. Use a leash in public areas.

Understand the rabies situation in your country or area. Some countries or regions have successfully eradicated rabies in domestic animals, while in others, the risk remains high.

In areas where rabies is common, avoid contact with stray dogs or cats and never approach wild animals. Strays, especially in regions where rabies is endemic, may not be vaccinated and might have come into contact with rabid wildlife.