Treat the bite as if the animal were rabid and immediately cleanse the wound thoroughly by washing with soap and water. See your physician immediately after washing the wound. Your physician will decide on need for treatment to prevent rabies, proper wound care, and need for a tetanus booster. Report the incident to your local rabies control authority within 24 hours. Be prepared to describe the dog, such as size and color, plus provide the location where the bite incident occurred, and the owner's name and address if known. Your local rabies control authority (animal control or law enforcement) will investigate the potential exposure and ensure that the appropriate actions are initiated.