Yes, animal bites or scratches may hurt. Especially when it comes to large stray dogs. But that’s not really the problem. We’re sure you can endure the pain. However, as in other Southeast Asian countries, there is an increased risk of rabies in Laos. If you are bitten, a rabies prophylaxis is inevitable. Such a prophylaxis is really uncomfortable, but can save your life. If you really get rabies, your chances of survival are nil. However, with a prophylaxis you can prevent it in almost all cases. For such cases, it is of course good to have a travel insurance.