Rabies prevention in Ottawa
Every animal (mammal) bite or other potential rabies exposure to a person is reportable to Ottawa Public Health (OPH). Bites and other exposures can be reported to OPH through an online webform, by telephone, and by fax↗.
OPH investigates every report for potential rabies transmission, and every report is risk-assessed to determine whether the person is recommended to obtain rabies treatment. If the animal is available for observation, such as in the case of a pet dog or cat, the person may not need rabies treatment, as the animal can be observed to rule out rabies transmission.
When observation of the animal is not possible, OPH recommends that the person sees a doctor to discuss rabies treatment. When rabies treatment is warranted, OPH works closely with the person and their health care provider to ensure that the person is protected against rabies.
One very important aspect of preventing rabies is up-to-date vaccination of pets. Since there may be barriers for some pet owners to obtain rabies vaccination for their pets, OPH has partnered with VCA Canada↗ to provide free rabies vaccination clinics. See below to learn more about the free vaccination clinic on April 17, 2026.
For more information on rabies, including upcoming vaccination clinics, visit our webpage: Rabies - Ottawa Public Health↗
Free dog and cat rabies vaccination clinic – April 17, 2026
Ottawa Public Health and VCA Canada want to help you protect your dog or cat from rabies. Bring your dog and/or cat on April 17 for a free rabies vaccination. First come, first served.
Who: Dogs and cats, 12 weeks of age or older
What:
Free one-year rabies vaccine
Free three-year rabies vaccine for animals with *proof of a current rabies vaccine
When: April 17, 2026 from 10 am to 2 pm
Where: Banff Avenue Community House, 2084 Banff Avenue, Units A and B↗
Bring:
Dogs on a short leash
Cats in a carrier
*Proof of current/valid rabies vaccination for those who would like their pet vaccinated with the three-year rabies vaccine is required.
Things to know:
First come, first served
Multiple pets allowed
Due to limited capacity, we may not be able to service all pets
If you have any questions, please contact Ottawa Public Health Rabies team at 613-580-6744 or email rabiesinfo@ottawa.ca