Lakelands Public Health is partnering with local animal welfare organizations and veterinary clinics across the regions to provide reduced-cost rabies vaccination clinics this spring, helping ensure more pets are protected while reducing financial barriers for pet owners.
“Having a pet in your life can do wonders for both the physical health and mental health of a pet owner, but the financial stress of keeping pets up to date with their vaccines can be a lot to manage for some pet owners,” said Richard Ovcharovich, Manager of Environmental Health with Lakelands Public Health. “These reduced-cost clinics can help reduce that stress while protecting our community’s pets and the families that love them.”
Rabies is a deadly viral disease that affects the central nervous system of warm-blooded mammals, including humans. In Ontario, the animals most associated with rabies transmission include bats, foxes, skunks, and raccoons; however, infected pets and other domestic animals can also spread the disease.
Rabies can spread to humans when the saliva of an infected animal enters the body through a bite, scratch, or by encountering an open wound.
According to the Peterborough Humane Society (PHS) CEO Shawn Morey, clinics like these are a real priority. “For 85 years at PHS, compassion for animals and reducing barriers to pet care has been at the front of everything we do,” said Morey. “Partnering with Lakelands Public Health on this clinic is a meaningful way to support both ends of the leash and keep our community safe.”
Under Ontario Regulation 567 of the Health Protection and Promotion Act, all cats, dogs, and ferrets must be vaccinated against rabies at three months of age and remain up to date with regular vaccination throughout their lives.
Reduced-cost rabies vaccination clinics will be offered at the following locations:
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Humane Society of Kawartha Lakes
Pre-booking required at HSKL.ca but space is limited. |
Lakefield Animal Welfare Society Time: 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
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Asphodel-Norwood Community Centre Pre-booking is required at Peterborough Humane Society, select the NORWOOD LOCATION – Rabies Clinic Appointment.
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Paulmac’s Pet Valu Campbellford Date: Sunday, June 21, 2026 Time: 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. Location: Paul Mac’s York Plaza (25 Doxsee Ave S #3, Campbellford) Cost (cash only): Rabies vaccine: $40, microchip: $40 or both: $60
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When attending a clinic, dogs must be leashed and cats must be in carriers or otherwise securely restrained. Owners should bring proof of previous rabies vaccination if available.
These clinics do not include a full veterinary examination. Pet owners are encouraged to schedule regular veterinary appointments to ensure their pets receive comprehensive care.
For more information about rabies and clinic details, please visit LakelandsPH.ca/RabiesClinics
