Dutchess County to Host Free
Rabies Vaccine Clinic for Local Pets
Saturday, September 13th at The East Fishkill Community Center
POUGHKEEPSIE, NY – The Dutchess County Department of Health (DCDOH) will once again partner with the Hudson Valley Animal Rescue & Sanctuary (HVARS) to offer a free rabies vaccination clinic on Saturday, Sept. 13 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the East Fishkill Community Center, 890 Route 82 in Hopewell Junction. Pre-registration is required. Online registration opens Wednesday, August 20th at hvars.org. View the event flyer.
The clinic is free for Dutchess County residents and $15 per pet for non-residents. All dogs must be on a leash, and cats and domestic ferrets must be in carriers. Vaccinations will be good for three years with proof of prior vaccination. For those without proof, the vaccination will be good for one year. Microchipping will also be available at a cost of $45 per pet, and a one-year distemper vaccine for $25 per pet.
In New York State, rabies vaccinations are required for all cats, dogs, and domestic ferrets by the age of four months. Revaccination is then required on a regular schedule to keep the animal properly immunized against the rabies virus. Owners can be fined up to $200 if they fail to get their pets vaccinated and keep them up to date.
This vaccination clinic is the second of three such rabies clinics hosted by DCDOH and HVARS in 2025; the final will be held before the end of the year, and details to follow as the date nears.
Residents who see an animal acting strangely are advised to contact their local police agency. If a person or a domestic pet is bitten or is in contact with any animal, please contact DCDOH at 845-486-3404 Monday through Friday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., or 845-431-6465 on nights and weekends. Staff will investigate and advise the pet owner of any necessary steps to ensure the safety of their animal.
To learn more about rabies, visit dutchessny.gov/rabies or contact DCDOH at ehs@dutchessny.gov.