Rabies Vaccination, With a Full Exam
A rabies vaccination may be quick, but the examination that comes first is just as important. Before vaccinating, we examine your pet to make sure vaccination is appropriate and to look for health concerns that might otherwise go unnoticed.
What is included
What a rabies vaccination visit includes
- A complete physical examination
- Rabies vaccination, with the vaccine and date documented
- A rabies vaccination certificate provided the same day
- Microchip information checked or updated when applicable
- A review of other vaccines and preventive care that may be due
California
Rabies vaccination in California
California requires dogs over 4 months of age to be vaccinated against rabies. Rabies vaccination is also strongly recommended for cats, including indoor cats, although California does not require it statewide; some cities and counties have additional requirements.
For dogs, the first rabies vaccine can be given after 3 months of age. A booster is given one year after the first vaccination, followed by boosters according to California requirements and the vaccine used.
Your dog’s rabies certificate is also important for licensing.
What to expect
What to bring and what to watch for
Bring any previous rabies certificate or vaccination record. The date and type of your pet’s previous vaccine can affect when the next vaccination is due.
Vaccine reactions are uncommon and are usually mild. We will explain what to watch for after vaccination. If your pet does have a reaction, we are a full veterinary hospital and can provide treatment here when needed.
Travel
Rabies vaccination for travel
For many international destinations, the timing and documentation of the rabies vaccination are critical. Some destinations also require the microchip and rabies vaccination to occur in a specific order.
If you are planning international or Hawaii travel, tell us before we vaccinate. We can check the requirements for your destination and make sure the vaccine, microchip, and documentation are completed in the correct sequence.
Common questions
Questions we are asked
How often does my pet need a rabies vaccine?
For dogs, the first rabies vaccine can be given after 3 months of age. A booster is given one year after the first vaccination, followed by boosters according to California requirements and the vaccine used. Bring any previous rabies certificate or vaccination record. The date and type of your pet’s previous vaccine can affect when the next vaccination is due.
Do indoor cats need rabies vaccination?
Rabies vaccination is strongly recommended for cats, including indoor cats, although California does not require it statewide; some cities and counties have additional requirements.
Can I get just the shot, without an exam?
No. Every rabies vaccination visit includes a complete physical examination. Before vaccinating, we examine your pet to make sure vaccination is appropriate and to look for health concerns that might otherwise go unnoticed.
Call us or schedule a visit
Call us with your questions, or to schedule a visit for your pet.
- Address
- 6937 Warner Avenue
Huntington Beach, CA 92647 - Hours
- Monday – Saturday, 9 AM – 8:30 PM · Tue to 6 PMSunday: closed.
- Phone
- (714) 274-9305