Rabies is a vaccine-preventable, zoonotic viral disease that affects the central nervous system and brain. It is a deadly viral disease that primarily affects mammals, including humans. It's typically transmitted through the saliva of infected animals, most commonly through bites.  Once symptoms develop, rabies is almost always fatal. In the United States, it's not unusual for one to two people to die annually. You can help prevent rabies infections by vaccinating your animals and keeping them away from wildlife that can spread the disease. 
Rabies is 100% preventable

Rabies Vaccination Requirements in New York State
Rabies is a fatal viral disease that affects the brain and nervous system of both animals and people. It is spread through the saliva of an infected animal, most commonly through a bite. Because rabies is almost always fatal once symptoms develop, vaccination is the best protection for both pets and their families. New York State law requires all dogs, cats, and ferrets to be vaccinated against rabies by 4 months of age and to remain up to date throughout their lives.

At Churchville Veterinary Hospital, all active canine and feline patients are required to have a current rabies vaccination. If your pet receives their rabies vaccine elsewhere, please provide us with an updated rabies certificate so we can keep their medical record current. Even if you choose to decline other vaccines, rabies vaccination is required by law unless your pet qualifies for a state-approved medical exemption.

Rabies Vaccine Schedule

• First vaccine: By 4 months of age (many vaccines can be given as early as 12 weeks).
• Second vaccine: Within 1 year of the initial vaccination.
• Future boosters: Every 1 or 3 years, depending on the vaccine used and your pet's vaccination history.

Keeping your pet on schedule is important to maintain legal protection and avoid restarting the vaccination protocol.

Proof of Vaccination
After your pet is vaccinated, you will receive an official Rabies Vaccination Certificate. Please keep this document in a safe place, as it serves as legal proof of vaccination and may be required for boarding, grooming, licensing, travel, or in the event of a bite incident.

If Your Pet Is Exposed to or Bites Someone
If your pet bites a person or is exposed to a potentially rabid animal, New York State and your local Health Department will determine the required next steps based on the circumstances. Keeping your pet's rabies vaccination current greatly simplifies these situations and helps protect both your pet and the public.

Medical Exemptions
vaccination exemptions are uncommon and may only be granted by a licensed veterinarian when it is determined that vaccination would seriously endanger a pet's health. Medical exemptions must meet New York State requirements and require ongoing veterinary evaluation and documentation.

How do you test for Rabies?
Rabies cannot be definitively diagnosed in a live animal. The animal must be humanely euthanatized if it shows symptoms or is suspected of exposing a human or pet to rabies. Confirmation of rabies requires specialized laboratory testing of fresh brain tissue from the deceased animal. 

Can I be fined if my pet is not rabies vaccinated?
Yes. Owners of dogs, cats, or ferrets that are not vaccinated as required by New York State law may be subject to penalties, which vary by county and case.

Are there any exemptions to the law?
Limited exemptions exist, including certain medical exemptions certified by a veterinarian, some research animals, animals housed in approved shelters, certain animals passing through New York State for fewer than 15 days, and unowned feral animals.