September 28 is World Rabies Day, a global day of action and awareness focused on preventing rabies in both animals and humans. While rabies is nearly always fatal once symptoms appear, it is also 100% preventable—which is why vaccination and education remain critical tools in protecting public and animal health. 

At Boundary Bay Veterinary Specialty Hospital (BBVSH) in Bellingham, we’re reminding pet owners of the importance of keeping pets up to date on their vaccinations, avoiding contact with wildlife, and knowing what to do in the event of a potential rabies exposure. 

What Is Rabies? 

Rabies is a viral disease caused by a Lyssavirus that targets the central nervous system. It spreads through the bite or saliva of an infected animal and can affect dogs, cats, wildlife, humans, and other mammals. 

Once inside the body, the virus travels to the brain, causing severe neurological symptoms including changes in behavior, aggression, paralysis, and death. Once clinical signs appear, rabies is almost always fatal—making prevention essential. 

Rabies in Washington State: What’s the Risk? 

In Washington, bats are the only known mammal to carry rabies. While rabid raccoons, skunks, foxes, or coyotes have not been identified recently in the state, the virus can still be transmitted from infected bats to these or other mammals under the right conditions. 

In 2024, 15 bats tested positive for rabies in Washington. According to the Washington State Department of Health, between 3–10% of bats submitted for testing are found to be rabid. These bats are typically ill or have had contact with people or pets, making them more likely to be infected. In contrast, less than 1% of bats in the wild are believed to carry rabies. 

Rabid bats have been found in almost every county in Washington. Although the overall risk remains low, the consequences of exposure are severe—which is why vaccination, supervision, and awareness are essential for keeping pets and people safe. 

To learn more about rabies cases in the state, visit the Washington Rabies Activity page. 

What Are the Symptoms of Rabies? 

Rabies symptoms typically progress in two stages: 

Early signs may include: 

• Sudden changes in behavior 

• Anxiety or unusual shyness 

• Aggression 

• Fever 

• Vocal changes 

• Unexplained running or restlessness 

Advanced signs may include: 

• Seizures 

• Difficulty swallowing 

• Excessive salivation or foaming at the mouth 

• Loss of coordination 

• Hind limb weakness or paralysis 

If you see these signs in any animal—especially a wild one—avoid contact and alert animal control. 

Why Vaccination Matters 

• Rabies vaccines for dogs, cats, and ferrets are required by law in Washington State. Most pets receive their first vaccine at 3 months of age, followed by a booster one year later, and additional boosters as recommended by your veterinarian. 

• According to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA): 

• A vaccinated pet exposed to rabies should receive a booster shot and be monitored for 45 days. 

• Unvaccinated pets may require up to 120 days of quarantine—or euthanasia—depending on public health guidelines. 

• Vaccinating your pet creates a protective barrier between wildlife and people, helping prevent rabies transmission and protect public health. 

How to Protect Your Pets and Family from Rabies 

Vaccinate your pets
Make sure your dog, cat, or ferret is up to date on their rabies vaccine—even if they stay indoors. 

Know what to do after a bite 

• If your pet is bitten by a wild animal: Wash the wound thoroughly and seek veterinary care immediately. Your veterinarian will assess the risk and provide appropriate post-exposure treatment. 

• If a person is bitten: Wash the area with soap and water for at least 15 minutes and seek medical care. Inform your provider that the injury involved an animal bite to ensure proper evaluation and treatment. 

Supervise pets outdoors
Prevent pets from roaming freely and secure trash or food sources that might attract wildlife. 

Avoid wildlife contact
Teach children not to approach or handle wild animals, especially bats. Inspect and seal potential entry points to your attic or chimney, and consult professionals for bat-proofing if needed. 

We’re Here to Help 

At our shared facility in Bellingham, Boundary Bay Veterinary Specialty Hospital and Animal Emergency Care work closely together to provide seamless 24/7 care—from emergency stabilization to advanced diagnostics, treatment, and recovery. Whether your pet arrives during the day or after-hours, our emergency and specialty teams coordinate at every stage to ensure timely care and a smooth transition between services. This collaborative approach allows us to provide continuity of care throughout your pet’s entire stay, including post-operative monitoring, discharge planning, and follow-up support.