The Chesapeake Health Department Rabies Safety and Vax Clinic

September 24, 2025

Media Contact: Kimi Stevens, kimi.stevens@vdh.virginia,gov

The Chesapeake Health Department Rabies Safety and Vax Clinic
World Rabies Day is September 28

CHESAPEAKE, Va. – World Rabies Day is September 28. The Chesapeake Health Department reminds you to keep away from contact with strays and wild animals. Even although rabies is almost 100% deadly, it’s extremely preventable.

Rabies is often present in Virginia in wild animals, akin to raccoons, skunks, and foxes. This yr, 151 animals examined optimistic with rabies in Virginia.

“Rabies is 100% preventable, but only if we act.” says Nicole Yirenkyi, Chesapeake Health Department Rabies Program Supervisor. “Vaccinate, educate, and advocate because every life matters.” Virginia regulation requires all canines and cats 4 months of age and older be vaccinated for rabies by a licensed veterinarian. Vaccinations should be stored present.

The Chesapeake Health Department will host a $10 rabies vaccination clinic on Saturday, October 25, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. to midday within the parking zone.

• First come, first served.
• Dogs and cats are welcome.
• Cash solely.
• Residency will not be required.
• Pets MUST BE in a crate or on a leash.
• One yr and three-year rabies certificates obtainable with present pet vaccination report.

To defend your self and your animals from rabies:

• Do not feed stray animals. Report them to native animal management authorities at Chesapeake Animal Services. 757-382-8181
• Avoid wild animals, particularly raccoons, bats, foxes and skunks. Wild animals should not pets.
• Do not deal with sick, injured or useless animals. Instead, report these animals to the Department of Wildlife Resources. Permitted wildlife rehabilitators are an alternative choice.
• Teach kids to keep away from contact with wild animals and unfamiliar pets.
• Feed your pets indoors and don’t allow them to wander.
• Keep wild animals out of your property by capping chimneys with screens. Block openings in attics, cellars and porches. Ensure trash cans have tight becoming lids.
• Make certain your pets are vaccinated in opposition to rabies and their pictures are updated. By regulation, all canines and cats should be vaccinated in opposition to rabies.
• Talk together with your healthcare supplier earlier than touring abroad to see if rabies vaccinations are beneficial.

Anyone probably uncovered to a rabid animal ought to notify their healthcare supplier instantly. Exposure consists of any bites, scratches or contact with saliva.

If you’re bitten by a wild or stray animal, don’t panic. Wash animal chunk wounds completely with cleaning soap and water to lower the possibility of an infection. Contact your healthcare supplier or the Chesapeake Health Department for additional suggestions.

If your pet is attacked or bitten by an animal, contact animal management or The Chesapeake Health Department.

For extra details about rabies, go to the Virginia Department of Health Rabies Control webpage.

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Last Updated: September 24, 2025