Free Rabies Clinic, Low-Cost Microchipping Coming to Hudson Valley This Month

The Importance of Microchipping Your Pet

The phrase "getting microchipped" sounds a bit scary, right? But in actuality, it's a safe process that comes highly recommended from veterinarians nationwide.

The American Animal Hospital Association explains "Microchipping is a quick and relatively painless procedure, similar to getting a routine vaccination" and doesn't require anesthesia.

There's minimal discomfort, the microchip is the size of a grain of rice, and the procedure is over in a few seconds.

Once the microchip is implanted in your pet it will provide lifelong protection. The microchip "provides a permanent, secure, and reliable way to identify your pet" if they some how get loose and become lost.

The chances of a reunion with your lost pet drastically increase if they are microchipped.

Local Animal Rescue Hosts Clinic For Rabies Shots and Microchips

May is Chip Your Pet Month and one local Hudson Valley animal rescue is helping make it easier on pet parents to get the procedure done.

Hudson Valley Animal Rescue Sanctuary is hosting a free rabies shot clinic on Saturday May 30th, 2026 from noon until 4pm.

The clinic will be held in Rhinebeck at the Third Lutheran Evangelical Church at 31 Livingston Street. 

In addition to the free rabies shots, HVARS will also be offering microchipping. It cost $45 per pet. There will be one-year distemper vaccines available for $25.

Microchipping will also be available at a cost of $45 per pet and one-year distemper vaccine for $25 per pet. Pre-registration is require and can be made at HVARS.org.

Rabies Vaccination Laws in New York State

If you're a pet owner in New York State, your pets must be vaccinated against rabies.

According to the Albany County NY website "Rabies shots are required for all cats, dogs, and domestic ferrets by four months of age."

READ MORE: Rabid Coyote Attacks People and Dogs in Westchester County

If your pet is not vaccinate and you fail to keep the vaccinations up-to-date, the pet owner can be fined up to $200.

You can get a full break down of the  Pet Rabies Immunization Law at AlbanyCountyNY.gov.