On Wednesday, animal control officers with the Hollister Police Department Animal Care and Services Bureau responded to the Hollister Methodist United Church at 521 Monterey St. for a deceased bat, and lab testing confirmed it was infected with the rabies virus, according to the HPD.
Animal Control Officers investigating the incident have confirmed that the bat had no human or pet contact, including the students at the preschool on the same grounds, according to the department’s announcement.
The police department initially reported the bat was found at the preschool. But a representative from the school clarified it was discovered on the porch of the church, and that no students would be in that area for any reason.
According to the statement:
“The Hollister Police Department Animal Care and Services Bureau want to remind pet owners to vaccinate their pets, including dogs and cats, against the rabies virus. Only licensed veterinarians can administer an anti-rabies vaccination. Low-cost rabies vaccination clinics are held the 1st, 2nd and 4th Saturdays each month at Pet World located at 401 McCray Street.”
Anyone suspecting an animal to be infected is urged to call the Hollister Police Department Animal Care and Services Bureau or law enforcement immediately. People may call the Hollister Police Departments Animal Care and Services Bureau at (831) 636-4320 for additional questions.
