Santa Clarita residents have reported multiple rabid bats this year, with local public health officials urging families to remain cautious and ensure pets are vaccinated against rabies.
Rabid bats were discovered throughout Santa Clarita from March through October 2025, with several incidents involving possible pet exposure, according to the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health.
In Santa Clarita, bats were found both dead and alive in residential areas: in yards, garages, patios, swimming pools and even between window screens. In one June case, a dog had direct contact with a rabid canyon bat on a back patio. In August, another bat was discovered alive inside a Valencia garage, while separate reports that month included bats found floating in a pool and clinging to a window screen. At least two local dogs that were not up to date on rabies vaccinations were exposed to bats during these incidents.
Castaic also saw several rabid bat cases, including one in July where a backyard encounter exposed an unvaccinated dog, and another in September when a bat was found dead by a decorative wreath on a front door.
Public Health officials stress that while only about 1 percent of bats in nature carry rabies, the risk rises significantly – 10 to 15 percent – when bats are found in unusual situations such as being active in daylight or making contact with people and pets.Â
Rabies is fatal if left untreated, making prevention essential.
Do not touch it: Never handle bats or other wildlife with bare hands.
Isolate the bat: Keep people and pets away.
Call authorities: Report the bat to Los Angeles County Public Health for testing and rabies exposure consultation at (213) 989-7060 during business hours or (213) 240-7941 after hours.
Protect pets: Keep rabies vaccinations current, even for indoor-only animals.
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