All dogs and cats over three months of age must be vaccinated against rabies, according to the law. If your pet's vaccination is current, your pet is protected from fox, raccoon, and bat strain rabies. Other animals, including ferrets and livestock (i.e. horse, cow, bull, deer, calf, sheep) are also required to be vaccinated if they come into contact with the general public. Owners are required to provide proof of vaccination upon request from a public health inspector.
If your dog or cat didn't get vaccinated during a routine veterinary visit, you can take advantage of the low-cost rabies clinics in your area in the fall. When clinics are active, the schedule is posted below. For a listing of additional low-cost rabies vaccine clinics outside of Simcoe Muskoka, please refer to the Ontario Association of Veterinary Technicians.
Low-cost rabies clinics
Annual low-cost rabies clinics are now available across Simcoe County for dogs and cats over three months old. Costs are per animal and ONLY CASH will be accepted. No appointment is necessary to attend the walk-in rabies clinics. A 1-year vaccine is available and previously vaccinated pets may be able to receive a 3-year booster. You must bring your pet's vaccination records to see if your pet qualifies for the 3-year vaccine.
When attending a clinic:
- Dogs must be leashed and cats in carriers.
- Do not attend a clinic if you are ill.
- Practice physical distancing by staying 2 metres away from others.
- Wash hands with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand rub immediately before and after visiting the clinic.
Clinic dates and locations can be found here.
