Rabies Vaccine in Boynton Beach, FL, From Your Local Vet

Petfolk Veterinary & Urgent Care - Boynton Beach is a vet in Boynton Beach, FL, that gives the rabies vaccine to dogs and cats and provides a signed rabies certificate. Florida law requires every dog, cat and ferret 4 months or older to be vaccinated against rabies by a licensed veterinarian.

Rabies is a virus that attacks the brain, and once signs appear it can't be cured. The vaccine is simple, safe for most pets, and the reason rabies in pets is now rare.

Call (561) 200-1214, book online or walk in for a rabies shot.

What does Florida law require?

Florida Statute 828.30 sets the rules for dogs, cats and ferrets:

1. First shot by 4 months of age, given by a licensed vet or a person the law authorizes.

2. A booster 12 months after the first shot.

3. After that, boosters on the schedule the vaccine maker sets, which is often every three years.

4. A signed rabies vaccination certificate from the vet for each shot.

The statute also says the cost of vaccination is the owner's responsibility.

What does Palm Beach County add?

Palm Beach County asks that dogs and cats 6 months and older be licensed with the county, within 30 days of getting your pet or moving into the county. The county license is valid for one year from the rabies vaccination date, or its anniversary, and can never run past the current rabies vaccine. That means your rabies shot and your county tag work together.

Tags are sold through the county's licensing vendor and at participating vet clinics. Ask the team at Petfolk Boynton Beach how to get your tag after the visit.

Does my pet need a rabies booster every year?

Not always. At Petfolk Boynton Beach, the vet checks your pet's records:

• First rabies shot ever: the booster is due in 12 months.

• Adult with up-to-date records: many pets then go every three years, based on the vaccine used.

• Lapsed or missing records: the vet will treat the next shot as a first shot, with a booster in 12 months.

Bring your pet's old rabies certificate if you have it. It can save your pet an extra shot.

Rabies in Florida wildlife

The Florida Department of Health names raccoons and bats as the main wildlife sources of rabies in the state. It also says outdoor cats are by far the most common pet found with rabies in Florida, which is one more reason indoor-outdoor cats need their shot. Keep pet food inside, cover garbage cans, and don't let your pet chase wildlife on evening walks. If a wild animal bites your pet, call your vet right away.

What to expect at the visit

The vet does a quick exam first, then gives the shot under the skin. Fear Free handling is standard, so the team uses treats and as little restraint as possible.

He was so gentle, My puppy didn’t even notice he had a shot.

Nikki L., Google review

A sore spot or a quiet day after is normal. You'll leave with a signed certificate.

What does a rabies shot cost?

The rabies vaccine is given with a wellness exam, which starts at $99 at Petfolk Boynton Beach, or is free with PetfolkCare, which starts at $199 a year. The vaccine is priced separately. You'll get an estimate before any test or treatment. The final bill can differ if the plan changes during the visit.

Reactions that need help

Serious reactions are rare. Face swelling, hives or vomiting after the shot means call the clinic. Collapse or trouble breathing means go to a 24-hour emergency hospital, such as Veterinary Emergency Group (VEG) on North Congress Avenue.

Get your pet's rabies shot

Petfolk Veterinary & Urgent Care - Boynton Beach is at 7375 Boynton Beach Blvd, Suite 435, Boynton Beach, FL 33437. Call (561) 200-1214. Other core shots: dog vaccines in Boynton Beach and cat vaccines in Boynton Beach.

Book a visit at Petfolk Veterinary & Urgent Care - Boynton Beach, or see all veterinary services in Boynton Beach.