Bat tests positive for rabies in Soquel, dog that found it is OK

The Santa Cruz County Health Services Agency and Santa Cruz County Animal Shelter confirmed Tuesday that a bat found in the Soquel area has tested positive for rabies. 

A dog that made contact with the bat was fully vaccinated and not harmed by the interaction.

“This serves as an important reminder to the community about the dangers of rabies and the steps everyone should take to protect themselves, their families and their pets,” the county’s health agency said in a release. “Rabies is a fatal disease and can be transmitted to humans from animals, but it is preventable through proper vaccination. While people don’t generally have to be vaccinated against rabies, pets are more likely to have contact with wild animals that may carry the disease and should be vaccinated.”

According to the county, although California law requires that only dogs be vaccinated against rabies; cats and other pets who might be susceptible to rabies exposure should receive vaccinations and proper booster shots. 

Another key, it said, is to avoid contact with wildlife: Don’t touch, feed or try to attract wild animals to come into close range of you or your pets. Bats, raccoons, skunks and foxes are the most common carriers of rabies, the county said, and they are attracted by open garbage cans and pet food left outdoors. 

If someone sees an animal acting unusual, such as appearing friendly, fearless, disoriented, or aggressive, they can report it to Santa Cruz County Animal Control at 831-454-7224.