Santa Rosa County Hosts Drive-Through Rabies Vaccination Clinic Nov. 13

The Florida Department of Health in Santa Rosa County will offer a quick, affordable way for pet owners to keep their animals protected against rabies later this month.

On Friday, November 13, from 4 to 6 p.m., DOH-Santa Rosa will run a drive-through rabies vaccination clinic at Pensacola State College's Milton Campus, 5988 Highway 90. Pet owners can stay in their vehicles while veterinarians from The Ark Animal Hospital administer shots for just $10 per animal—cash and checks only. A valid driver's license is required for check payments. Pets must be secured in a vehicle, crate, or on leash.

Each vaccinated animal will receive a certificate and rabies tag. The clinic is expected to vaccinate between 200 and 300 dogs and cats. According to DOH-Santa Rosa Health Administrator R. Matthew Dobson, the partnership with local veterinarians aims to make rabies prevention more accessible to the community. "These clinics bring a needed service in a more accessible way," Dobson said.

Rabies remains fatal once symptoms appear but is entirely preventable through vaccination. The health department urges pet owners to keep animals supervised, avoid contact with wildlife, and report any bites or scratches to Santa Rosa Animal Control at 850-983-4680 or DOH-Santa Rosa at 850-983-5200. For questions about the clinic, call 850-564-2278.