Rabies Awareness in Illinois: What Chicago Pet Owners Should Know

Rabies may feel like a concern limited to wildlife or pets that spend a lot of time outdoors, but exposure can happen closer to home than many people realize. Illinois health officials have reported higher-than-normal rabies-related call volume and bat submissions this year. As of September 9, 61 animals had tested positive for rabies in Illinois in 2026.

Our own Dr. Emily Winson recently spoke with NBC Chicago about what local pet owners should know and how routine vaccination helps protect both pets and people.

Can Indoor Pets Be Exposed to Rabies?

Yes. Even pets that live exclusively indoors may be at risk if a bat enters the home through a small opening or crevice. A curious dog or cat may approach, catch, or play with a bat before anyone realizes what happened.

Bat bites and scratches can be very small and difficult to see. This is one reason it is important to keep every pet current on their rabies vaccination, including indoor cats.

How to Help Protect Your Pet

A few preventive steps can make a meaningful difference:

• Keep your pet’s rabies vaccination current.
• Do not allow pets to approach bats or other wildlife.
• Keep dogs leashed during neighborhood walks.
• Check windows, screens, chimneys, attics, and other possible entry points for openings.
• Contact your veterinarian promptly if your pet may have encountered a bat or another wild animal.

Rabies vaccination requirements and timing can vary based on your pet’s age, health, and vaccination history. Your veterinary team can confirm when your pet is due.

What Should You Do If You Find a Bat?

Do not touch the bat, even if it appears healthy, injured, or unable to fly. Keep pets and people away from the area and contact animal control or your local public health department for guidance and safe removal.

If your pet may have had contact with the bat or another high-risk wild animal, call your veterinarian immediately. If a person may have been bitten, scratched, or otherwise exposed, contact a healthcare professional or local public health department right away. Do not release the bat until public health or animal control has advised you, since testing may help determine whether treatment is needed.

Prevention Starts with Vaccination

Rabies is preventable, and keeping pets vaccinated is one of the most effective ways to protect them and the people around them. If you are unsure whether your pet is current, our team can review their records and help you plan the next step.

Watch Dr. Winson’s full interview with NBC Chicago.

Is your pet due for a rabies vaccine? Contact West Loop Veterinary Care or book an appointment online.