Rabies Cases Are Rising in the Bay Area. Is Your Dog Protected?

The Bay Area is a pretty wonderful place to have a dog. From neighborhood walks in Santa Clara to hiking trails in the Santa Cruz Mountains, there are endless opportunities to get outside and explore together.

But sharing our beautiful corner of California with wildlife comes with a few responsibilities, too.

Recent reports of rabies-positive bats in the region have put a renewed spotlight on a disease that many dog owners rarely think about outside of their annual vet appointments.

And while rabies in domestic dogs is uncommon in California, the disease remains a serious concern for animals and humans alike.

Here's what's happening locally, what it means for your dog, and why a few simple precautions can make a big difference.

What's Happening in the Bay Area?

In October 2026, Santa Cruz County health officials reported an increase in bats testing positive for rabies, with nine confirmed cases so far this year, compared with three during all of 2025.

Statewide, the number of rabies-positive bats rose from 229 in 2024 to 314 in 2025, an increase of approximately 37%. Officials have noted that increased testing may contribute to changes in reported cases.

And this isn't limited to Santa Cruz County. According to the California Department of Public Health's 2026 surveillance table, rabies-positive bats have also been documented closer to home, including two in Santa Clara County and three in San Mateo County.

California Department of Public Health

Does this mean there's a rabies outbreak among Bay Area dogs? No.

The reported local cases we're discussing involve wildlife, primarily bats. Rabies in vaccinated domestic dogs remains rare in California. Still, the findings offer a timely reminder that rabies is present in our environment, and prevention matters.

What Is Rabies, and Why Should Dog Owners Care?

Rabies is a viral disease that attacks the nervous system of mammals, including dogs, cats, wildlife, and humans.

It is generally transmitted through the bite of an infected animal or when infected saliva enters broken skin or a mucous membrane.

Once symptoms develop, rabies is almost always fatal. The good news is that vaccination and prompt medical care after potential exposure are highly effective prevention measures.

In California, the animals most commonly found with rabies are bats and skunks. Dogs can become infected through encounters with infected wildlife, even in otherwise familiar places like backyards, parks, or trails.

And that brings us to one of the more surprising things about rabies.

The Biggest Concern Isn't Necessarily What You Think

When most people imagine a rabid animal, they picture an aggressive dog or an obviously sick wild animal.

But rabies doesn't always look that dramatic.

An infected bat might be lying on the ground, unable to fly, or behaving unusually. Some wildlife may appear disoriented, unusually tame, or active at unexpected times.

And while most healthy bats avoid people and pets, a curious dog might approach, sniff, paw at, or even pick up a bat it finds.

That's why wildlife encounters deserve attention, even when the animal doesn't appear threatening.

California public health officials specifically warn that a bat found on the ground, unable to fly, or caught by a dog or cat may warrant investigation.

It's also worth remembering that not every bat carries rabies. Bats are an important part of our ecosystem, helping control insects and contributing to healthy natural environments.

The goal isn't to fear wildlife. It's to give it space.

Five Things Bay Area Dog Owners Should Do Right Now

1. Check Your Dog's Rabies Vaccination

This is the single most important step you can take.

California requires dogs older than four months to be vaccinated against rabies. Booster schedules depend on the vaccine and your dog's vaccination history, so check with your veterinarian to ensure your dog is current.

If you recently adopted a dog, moved to California, or simply can't remember when that last booster happened, now is a great time to check.

And don't forget to keep a copy of the vaccination record somewhere accessible.

2. Keep Curious Noses Away From Wildlife

Dogs explore the world with their noses. Unfortunately, that curiosity can lead them straight toward something we'd rather they leave alone.

When walking through parks, wooded areas, or open spaces, keep an eye out for wildlife behaving unusually.

If you encounter a bat or another potentially sick animal, don't allow your dog to investigate.

Keep your dog under control and move away calmly.

3. Be Mindful Around Your Home, Too

Wildlife encounters don't only happen on hiking trails.

Bats can sometimes enter garages, attics, or other structures. Other wildlife may be attracted to pet food or unsecured trash.

Simple precautions include keeping trash secured, avoiding outdoor pet food overnight, and addressing gaps where wildlife could enter buildings.

A little prevention around the house can reduce the chance of an unexpected encounter.

4. Know What to Do if Your Dog Encounters a Bat

If your dog catches, mouths, or has possible physical contact with a bat, don't assume everything is fine simply because you can't see an injury.

Keep your dog away from the animal, avoid handling the bat yourself, and contact your veterinarian and local animal control promptly.

Your veterinarian and public health authorities can determine whether your dog needs additional care, testing arrangements for the wild animal, or other precautions.

If you were bitten or may have been exposed yourself, wash the affected area with soap and running water and seek medical guidance immediately.

Don't wait for symptoms to appear. 

5. Know the Warning Signs, but Don't Rely on Them

Rabies can cause changes in behavior, unusual aggression, weakness, difficulty walking, trouble swallowing, or excessive salivation.

However, these symptoms can overlap with other medical conditions, and an animal may not show obvious signs immediately after exposure.

If you suspect your dog has encountered a potentially rabid animal, seek veterinary advice right away, even if your dog appears perfectly healthy.

Why This Matters for Dogs and Humans

Rabies is a reminder that the health of dogs and humans is closely connected.

Vaccinating our pets doesn't just help protect them. It also reduces the likelihood of rabies spreading from infected animals into our homes and communities.

And being mindful around wildlife protects something else we care about: the animals that share our local environment.

You don't need to stop enjoying the trails, parks, or open spaces that make the Bay Area special.

You just need to be informed, prepared, and a little more aware of what's around you.

The Brindleden Take: Better Together Means Looking Out for Each Other

At Brindleden, we believe dogs and their humans deserve to live their best lives together. And part of making that possible is creating a community where health, safety, and responsible dog ownership are shared priorities.

As we prepare to open in the South Bay / Silicon Valley, we're building an environment that values proactive care, including vaccination requirements, temperament screening, thoughtful play spaces, and staff who help monitor canine interactions.

Because great dog communities aren't simply about getting dogs together. They're about creating the conditions for dogs and people to feel comfortable, connected, and cared for.

If you're ever uncertain about your dog's health, vaccination status, or possible exposure to wildlife, always speak with your veterinarian.

We're excited to bring Brindleden to the South Bay, with more details about our location and opening to be shared soon.

Visit Brindleden.com to stay connected, receive updates on our opening and events, and be among the first to learn about early membership opportunities.

And if our vision resonates with you, we'd love your help building this community. Share Brindleden with friends, neighbors, and fellow dog lovers who believe dogs and humans deserve more opportunities to thrive together.

We can't wait to welcome you and your dog.