Health Department

2015 Rabies Vaccination Clinics

The Knox County Health Department and the Knoxville Veterinarian Medical Association will offer rabies vaccinations for $10 per dog or cat on Saturdays, May 2 and 9 from 2 to 4:30 p.m. at select Knox County schools.

At the vaccination clinics, all pets must be restrained. Dogs should be on a leash, and cats should be in carriers or pillowcases (a pillowcase is preferred because the vaccine can be administered through the cloth). Those with aggressive or uncontrollable dogs are advised to leave the pet in the car and ask for assistance at the registration desk.

Rabies Clinic Locations:

Rabies is almost always fatal in animals and humans, which is why rabies vaccination is a public health priority. When an unvaccinated pet comes in contact with a rabid animal, it can spread the disease to its human family.

Tennessee and Knox County laws require all dogs and cats 3 months of age and older to be vaccinated against rabies, a virus that attacks the brain and spinal column. If untreated, death can occur within days of the onset of symptoms. The best way to prevent rabies is to make sure pets get vaccinated and avoid contact with stray or wild animals. It’s also important to vaccinate indoor pets, who can accidentally encounter wild animals, such as bats or raccoons.

For more information, call 865-215-5200 or email environmental@knoxcounty.org.