Anthony Yates
Authorities in California confirmed that a bat tested positive for rabies last month. It’s a fatal illness, and one county has offered a few precautions to protect your pets.
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What happened: The County of Monterey Health Department revealed the findings in a news release on October 7. Officials reportedly located a Mexican free-tailed bat on September 29 in the Cachagua area of unincorporated Monterey County, which tested positive for the virus.
- Hitchcock Road Animal Services investigated the situation and determined that the bat had contact with pets. Authorities are now holding those animals under quarantine. The Health Department said it was unaware of any human exposure.
- The news release explains that rabies causes a fatal illness in animals and humans. Officials warn that there is “a continuous presence of rabies in local wildlife,” which can occur anywhere, including cities.
- In Monterey County specifically, authorities noted that the species most likely to carry rabies are bats and skunks.
California Officials Explain That Dogs And Cats Could Be At Increased Risk
Risk of exposure: Domestic animals, particularly dogs and cats, are at increased risk of rabies exposure when interacting with wildlife. To that end, authorities recommend owners ensure their rabies vaccinations are up to date and to visit their vets.
- On top of the vaccine recommendations, public health and animal control officials suggest that owners do not leave their pets unattended outside, particularly when it starts to get dark.
- The news release also points out that livestock owners should be extra vigilant. Species such as horses, sheep, goats, pigs, and cattle are also susceptible to rabies. Officials recommend discussing the rabies vaccines with a vet.
- Pet owners should refrain from leaving food or water outside, as this encourages wild animals to venture closer to homes.
- Finally, the Health Department recommends staying away from wild animals, especially bats and skunks, at all times. “Do not touch or approach animals acting strangely,” the post warns. Officials ask anyone who encounters a dead or poorly wild animal to contact local animal control.
- Many of these pointers echo advice from the CDC, which states that anyone who spots nocturnal animals acting strangely during the day should call animal control.
