Written by Aileen Thompson, DVM

Rabies is a viral disease that attacks the nervous system and is almost always fatal once clinical signs develop. While rabies is uncommon in California thanks to vaccination programs and public health efforts, the disease remains present in local wildlife populations and continues to pose a risk to both pets and people.

Recently, rabid animals were identified in the Granite Bay area, serving as an important reminder that rabies has not disappeared from our community. Although most people will never encounter a rabid animal, exposures do occur, and the consequences can be significant.

Why Rabies Matters

Rabies is unique among infectious diseases because once symptoms develop, it is almost always fatal. However, if a potential exposure is recognized early, preventive treatment is highly effective.

When a person is exposed to a rabid animal—or even suspected of being exposed—they may need to undergo post-exposure prophylaxis, a series of medical treatments designed to prevent rabies infection. These treatments can be time-consuming, stressful, and expensive, which is why preventing exposures remains so important.

In addition to the human health concerns, rabies investigations often involve veterinary professionals, public health officials, animal control agencies, and family members who may have had contact with the affected animal.

How Pets Become Exposed

Dogs and cats are most commonly exposed when they:

  • Interact with wildlife such as skunks, bats, foxes, or raccoons
  • Hunt or investigate wild animals
  • Come into contact with stray animals of unknown vaccination status
  • Are bitten by an infected animal

Outdoor cats and dogs that spend unsupervised time outside are generally at greater risk for wildlife encounters.

Protecting Your Family and Pets

The best defense against rabies is prevention.

Pet owners should:

  • Keep all dogs and cats current on rabies vaccination
  • Avoid handling wildlife, even if the animal appears friendly or injured
  • Supervise pets outdoors whenever possible
  • Contact a veterinarian promptly if a pet has an encounter with wildlife
  • Report unusual wildlife behavior to local animal control or public health authorities

Rabies remains one of the most important zoonotic diseases worldwide, but it is also one of the most preventable. Through vaccination, responsible pet ownership, and awareness of potential exposures, we can continue to protect both our pets and our communities.