GO Health announces final rabies vaccination clinics for 2025
Orleans County 4-H Fairgrounds hosting clinic on Oct. 25
Press Release, Genesee and Orleans County Health Departments
The Genesee and Orleans County Health Departments (GO Health) are urging residents to remain vigilant against rabies and to take advantage of upcoming clinics.
“Rabies is a deadly disease, but it is 100% preventable when proper precautions are taken,” said Paul Pettit, Public Health Director for GO Health. “We encourage residents to attend our upcoming clinics and protect their pets and community.”
Final Rabies Vaccination Clinics of 2025
GO Health will host its final free drive-thru rabies vaccination clinics in October. Funding is provided by the New York State Department of Health.
- Genesee County Rabies Vaccination Clinic – Thursday, October 9, from 4 to 6:30 p.m. at Genesee County Fairgrounds (5056 East Main Street, Batavia)
- Orleans County Rabies Vaccination Clinic – Saturday, October 25, from 9 to 11:30 a.m. at Orleans County Fairgrounds (12690 State Route 31, Albion)
Vaccinations are free for dogs, cats and ferrets. Animals must be at least 3 months old. Each animal must be leashed or crated and accompanied by an adult who can control the animal. Limit 4 pets per car maximum. Donations are accepted to offset costs to the health department.
NOTE: Proof of previous rabies vaccination must be provided at the clinic in order to receive a 3-year vaccination. Otherwise, only a 1-year vaccination can be provided. Originals, copies, and clear cell phone images may be accepted.
To help stop the spread of rabies, GO Health reminds residents to follow these important tips:
- Keep pets vaccinated. Make sure your dogs, cats, and ferrets are up to date on their rabies shots. Not only is it required by law, but it is also the responsible choice for your pet and helps keep your neighbors and community safe.
- Follow leash laws. Always keep pets on a leash and under direct supervision to prevent contact with wild or stray animals. If you or your pet is bitten, seek veterinary or medical care immediately and notify your local health department.
- Avoid wild, stray, and unknown animals. Never approach or try to pet animals that don’t belong to you, even if they seem friendly. Do not feed, touch, or handle wildlife (such as raccoons, skunks, bats, rabbits, and foxes) or stray dogs and cats. Teach children to never touch unknown animals.
- Never keep wild animals as pets. Do not attempt to adopt or bring wild animals into your home.
- Keep bats out of your home. If you find a bat indoors, do not release it! Safely capture it and contact your local health department, For instructions, watch this GO Health Video (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rHK6-hmpiss)
- Animal safety notice. If you see a stray animal or notice any animal showing possible signs of rabies, including aggression, excessive drooling, confusion, or trouble walking, contact your local animal control immediately.
For more information about GO Health Programs and Services, visit GOHealthNY.org or contact your local health department at:
- Orleans County: 585-589-3278
- Genesee County: 585-344-2580 ext. 5555