Low-Cost Rabies/Microchip Clinic

The clinic is at the shelter, which is located at 236 Boardman Street in Middlebury. Pre-registration is required and can be completed through the shelter’s website, homewardboundanimals.org. The cost is $30 for the rabies vaccine and $30 for a microchip which covers implant and initial registration. If your pet gets both, the cost is $55.

All animals must be 12 weeks of age or older to receive the rabies vaccine. To receive a 3-year rabies vaccine, pet owners must provide proof of prior vaccination. No physical exams will be performed. This is a drive-through style vaccine clinic. All dogs are required to be on leash and cats in carriers for this event.

Rabies is a deadly viral disease of the brain that infects mammals. In Vermont, rabies is most commonly found in wild animals, however the state requires that dogs and cats be vaccinated by a veterinarian. The owner of a dog must provide evidence of current rabies vaccination status to obtain the required municipal license by April 1 of each year.

A micro-chip is a very small electronic chip that is inserted under the skin between a pet’s shoulder blades which contains all the owner’s contact information. Most veterinary offices and shelters can scan for this chip and quickly identify the owner. The entire process takes less than two minutes and is almost painless.