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Rabies

It is a requirement in North Carolina that all cats, dogs and ferrets over 4 months of age be vaccinated against rabies.  It is also a requirement that these animals wear a valid rabies tag at all times.

Failure to comply with these requirements could result in a fine or fee.

Vaccinations are available from any licensed veterinarian.  Additionally, Orange County offers several low-cost rabies clinics throughout the year. The dates, times and locations for these clinics will be announced throughout the year and the vaccination cost is $10.

Should your pet come in contact with an animal that might be considered a rabies carrier, contact Animal Control immediately at (919) 942-PETS (7387) .  In the event of contact is after regular business hours, call 911

IMPORTANT information about protecting your pet from Rabies!

Rabies in Orange County and Low-Cost Clinics

Orange County's Animal Services Department has scheduled 11 low-cost rabies vaccination clinics for 2012, beginning in January.  Clinics are very important as North Carolina continues to be affected by the epidemic of "eastern raccoon rabies" that began in the latter half of the 1990s.

In 2010 in Orange County, there were 12 positive rabies cases, the lowest number in several years.  By comparison, there were 20 positive cases in 2008; 19 in 2007; 26 in 2006; and 24 in 2005.  It will not be surprising if the number of positive rabies cases rebounds in 2010 because there is a cycle of rabies among host species (such as the raccoon in eastern seaboard states).  The incidence of rabies among a host species thus increases and decreases over a period of time. 

It is for this reason that Orange County residents are urged to remain vigilant.  Pet owners must be sure that our dogs, cats, and ferrets are currently vaccinated against rabies and also that they immediately receive a booster shot if there is any possible exposure to rabies or a rabies vector.

Low-cost rabies vaccination clinics are one of several rabies-related services offered by Orange County Animal Services.  Staff also educates the public, investigates potential rabies exposures, and enforces applicable rabies regulations.

2013 Low-Cost Rabies Vaccination Schedule

All 2013 Rabies Clinics will be for 1-year vaccinations only $10. 

Checks, cards and cash will be accepted. 

Replacement rabies tags or rabies vaccination certificates for animals vaccinated at Orange County Animal Services Center are available for $6. Please visit in person during regular business hours to obtain a replacement.

Rabies Clinic Requirements

World Rabies Day Video Series

September 28th is the annual World Rabies Day, created in part by the CDC and designed to raise awareness annd education about rabies worldwide.  Watch the CDC's short video series about rabies and pet protection!

Additional Information

• State Veterinary Public Health/Epidemiology
• National Association of State Public Health Veterinarians
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
• Department of Human Health & Safety Important News Release About Bats & Rabies from July 2010
• Confirmed positive rabies cases for Orange County, 1996-2011
• Contact our offices