ERIE COUNTY, NY- Erie County will host its first free rabies vaccine clinic in 2026, inviting pet owners to take advantage of this public health service to protect dogs, cats and ferrets from this 100% fatal disease.

"During 2025, our department has confirmed two rabid cats and a significant number of rabid bats, skunks and raccoons," said Deputy Director of Environmental Health Peter Tripi. "We also have worked with pet owners whose dogs have tangled with raccoons. Consider this a special reminder to vaccinate your dogs and cats, even if they don't spend much time outside. There is always the potential for contact with a bat."

• Saturday, January 24, 2026, 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.
  North Buffalo Community Center, 203 Sanders Road, Buffalo
  Off Colvin Blvd., south of Kenmore Ave.
• Walk-in with your pets; this is not a drive-through site.

Registration is available at erie.gov/rabiesvaccineand appointments are required. Up to three pets will be accepted per appointment. Individuals who are unable to access online registration may call (716) 961-6800 during business hours to schedule an appointment.

Dogs, cats and ferrets three months of age and older are eligible for a vaccination. Pet owners are asked to bring proof of their pet's vaccination with them to the event in order to receive a three-year vaccination certificate; otherwise, a one-year certificate will be given.

Dogs must be secured with a collar & leash or restrained in a carrier; cats and ferrets must be restrained in a secure carrier. Please do not use retractable or extended leashes.

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Erie County Department of Health (ECDOH), Rabies: http://www.erie.gov/rabiesvaccine

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