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237 Cats and dogs receive free rabies vaccine at clinic hosted by Niagara Region Public Health and VCA Animal Hospitals
June 4, 2025
Yesterday, Niagara pet owners gathered at Market Square in St. Catharines with their cats and dogs for a free rabies vaccination clinic hosted by Niagara Region Public Health and VCA Canada Animal Hospitals. The event aimed to make essential rabies vaccinations for pets more accessible to residents, particularly those who may face challenges accessing routine veterinary care.
Now in its second year, the clinic saw an even higher turnout than in 2024. Pet owners began lining up as early as 9 a.m., well before the clinic’s 11:30 a.m. start. By noon, the clinic had reached full capacity, and by the day’s end, 237 cats and dogs were vaccinated.
“Rabies is fatal, but it is preventable. Making vaccinations easy and accessible for pet owners is one way that we can reduce risk to the entire community,” said Dr. Azim Kasmani, Niagara Region Medical Officer of Health. “When we reduce the barriers that make it harder for some pet owners to access care, whether those are financial, location, or otherwise, we help protect not just individual families, but the broader community as well.”
Rabies, a viral disease affecting the central nervous system of mammals, is spread through saliva often from a bite or scratch. While rabies is rare in Ontario, it remains a public health concern. Vaccination is the best defense, and it’s legally required for all cats and dogs over three months old in the province.
That’s why low-barrier clinics like this are so important. They offer a convenient, no-cost way for pet owners to meet legal vaccination requirements, especially for those who may not have easy or affordable access to regular veterinary services.
“Not everyone has a vet nearby, and some are facing circumstances that make routine care harder to access,” said Joe DeGiuli, Environmental Health Manager at Niagara Region Public
Health. “Clinics like this help remove those obstacles and build a safer, healthier community. This clinic checked those boxes, and the community showed up in a big way.”
VCA Canada, a leading provider of veterinary care, played a crucial role in the clinic’s success. Their team of veterinarians and veterinary assistants administered vaccinations with compassion and expertise, while public health staff managed registration and guided pet owners through the process.
The atmosphere was overwhelmingly positive, with many attendees expressing their appreciation for the service. For some, it was their pet’s first vaccination. For others, it was an opportunity to catch up on overdue care.
Looking ahead, Niagara Region Public Health hopes to continue offering rabies vaccination clinics, using insights from this week’s turnout, feedback, and local needs to guide future events.
Media contact
Celia Carr
Niagara Region Public Health
905-688-8248
celia.carr@niagararegion.ca
