What should be done with the animal involved in a bite incident within 24 hours?

In cases of an animal bite incident, presenting the animal for examination within 24 hours is essential for several reasons. First, it allows for a thorough health assessment and determination of the animal's vaccination status, particularly for rabies, which is a critical public health concern. An examination can also help to ascertain whether the animal poses any ongoing risk to the public.

Assessing the animal's health and behavior post-incident provides vital information to guide future interactions and ensure safety. Additionally, by examining the animal, authorities can gather necessary evidence that may be required for legal or reporting purposes regarding the incident.

Returning the animal to the owner or microchipping it may not address the immediate health concerns that arise from a bite incident. Quarantine may be necessary under specific conditions, but presenting the animal promptly for examination is the first and most critical action in ensuring proper care and community safety.