Menu Healthy Lifestyle Diseases & Conditions First Aid Symptoms Tests & Procedures Videos Definitions FAQs Dog attackUpdated: 2017-06-13OverviewA dog bite can lead to rabies or tetanus infection. Immediate medical care is needed when the bite is from a dog that has or might have rabies. SymptomsSymptoms of infection include redness, swelling, increased pain, and oozing. A doctor should look at these symptoms right away. TreatmentsNot having had a tetanus shot in five or more years increases tetanus risk. A booster shot may be recommended. © 1998-2022 Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research(MFMER). All rights reserved. Terms of Use