Report an animal bite and get rabies guidance

Need to know

Rabies is almost always fatal once symptoms start, but it is preventable with fast treatment.
Bats test positive for rabies more often than other animals in Marin.
If your pet has been in contact with dead/injured wildlife, or a bat has entered your home, contact Marin Humane at 415-883-4621 for assistance.

Wash the bite or scratch with soap and warm water as soon as possible.
Be ready to share when and where the bite happened, and what animal was involved.

Wash the wound or contact area thoroughly with soap and warm water.
Contact your healthcare provider as soon as possible. Your provider may consult the local health department about post-exposure treatment. If you are unable to reach your provider, go to the emergency room. An Animal Bite Report will be completed, which will initiate an investigation by Marin Humane and/or Marin County Public Health.
Contact Marin Humane at 415-883-4621 for animal capture and/or quarantine.
If your pet has been in contact with dead/injured wildlife, or a bat has entered your home, contact Marin Humane at 415-883-4621 for assistance.

What's next content

Your healthcare provider will decide if you need rabies post-exposure treatment. Important Information about Treatment for Rabies after Exposure. Public Health can help assess risk and next steps.

Marin Humane is responsible for capturing wild animals and quarantining domestic animals.

For rabies guidance about human exposure, call Marin County Public Health:
- Business hours (Mon to Fri, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.) at 415-473-4163 or email Marin County Public Health.
- After hours, call the Health Officer on Call at 415-499-7238.
If your pet has been in contact with dead/injured wildlife, or a bat has entered your home, contact Marin Humane at 415-883-4621 for assistance.