08/17/2026
🦇🚨 RABIES ALERT FOR NORTH IDAHO PET OWNERS
Two bats have recently tested positive for rabies in Spokane County, including one with suspected exposure to a domestic animal. The first was confirmed on July 24, 2026, marking the first rabid bat reported in Spokane County this year. A second positive bat was confirmed on August 4, with suspected exposure to a domestic animal.
While these cases are across the border, Spokane is just a short drive from North Idaho, and our communities share the same wildlife. This is an important reminder for pet owners throughout Kootenai County and the surrounding area.
🦇Bats are often misunderstood. They aren't the frightening, blood sucking creatures shown in movies! Most bats in Idaho eat large quantities of insects like moths, flies, and mosquitoes and play an important role in our ecosystem. The goal isn't to fear bats. It's to respect them and know what to do when we encounter them.
If you or your pet have direct contact with a bat or other potentially rabid wildlife:
🚫 Do not handle the animal with your bare hands.
📞 Contact your veterinarian and local Public Health District for guidance.
🦇 Keep your pet away from the bat and prevent further contact.
💉 Make sure your pet's rabies vaccination is current.
⚠️ Bat bites can be extremely small and may not be obvious.
Rabies is fatal once clinical signs develop, so prevention and prompt action after a potential exposure are extremely important.
With rabid bats recently confirmed just across the border, now is a great time to check your pet's rabies vaccination status!
Respect bats. Protect your pets. Protect our community.❤️🐾
Remember: Rabies doesn't stop at the state line. 🦇
