Free Rabies Clinic Vaccinates 90 Pets, Protects Orange County Residents

The Orange County Department of Health and the Town of Deerpark held a free rabies vaccination clinic at Howard Wheat Engine 4 in Deerpark on November 17, 2025, vaccinating 90 animals in a single day. According to a county recap posted November 17, 73 dogs and 17 cats received rabies shots during the event, part of ongoing efforts to prevent transmission of a deadly disease that can affect both animals and people.

The clinic was staffed by county environmental health teams, local veterinarians, animal control personnel and town clerks, with Tri State Veterinary Clinic staff and community volunteers singled out in the county notice for their help in running the event smoothly. The county release listed the participating veterinarians and other local partners, and it included contact information for those seeking details about future clinics or with environmental health questions.

Free vaccination clinics like the one in Deerpark carry immediate and long term public health benefits for Orange County residents. By increasing vaccination coverage among companion animals, the clinics reduce the likelihood of rabies exposure in homes, parks and workplaces, decrease the burden on emergency medical services and animal control, and protect residents who may not be able to afford private veterinary care. For communities with limited access to veterinary services, such events offer critical preventive care and a point of contact with public health resources.

The county advised residents to check the Department of Health environmental health web pages for upcoming clinic dates and rabies prevention guidance. That guidance helps pet owners understand vaccine schedules and local requirements, and it connects households with resources for safe animal handling and reporting of suspected rabies cases. The recap emphasized collaboration between municipal staff and veterinary professionals as key to delivering services efficiently and equitably.

Local leaders say maintaining high vaccination coverage is especially important in semi rural and mixed use areas where wildlife can come into contact with pets. Ensuring broad access to free or low cost vaccinations is a practical policy approach to reduce health disparities, lower the cost of emergency responses, and protect vulnerable residents including seniors and children.

For residents who missed the Deerpark event, the county recap provided points of contact for future clinics and environmental health questions. Orange County officials encourage pet owners to monitor the health department website for dates and locations, and to take advantage of free clinics as part of a community wide effort to keep pets and people safe.