Any time the skin barrier is broken, the risk of infection increases. An animal bite can quickly lead to an infection because of bacteria found in the animal’s mouth that is then introduced into the skin.
It’s estimated that about 50% of dog bites infect the body with bacteria like staphylococcus, streptococcus, Pasteurella, and capnocytophaga. Wild and unvaccinated animals can carry the rabies virus as well.