Rabies Vaccine for Dogs

Required protection for dogs in Vero Beach, Florida

Rabies is a serious and fatal disease that can affect both animals and people.

Because of the public health risk, rabies vaccination is required by law for dogs in Florida. At Mermaid SANDS, we provide rabies vaccines for dogs as part of a focused care model that supports individual pets and the broader Vero Beach and Indian River County community.

Why the rabies vaccine matters for dogs

Rabies is transmitted through bites or saliva exposure from infected animals, including wildlife such as raccoons, bats, and foxes.

Vaccinating your dog against rabies:

Protects your dog from a fatal disease
Helps protect people and other animals
Keeps your dog in compliance with Florida law
Reduces the risk of quarantine or euthanasia after a bite incident

Rabies vaccination is one of the most important—and legally regulated—vaccines your dog will receive.

Rabies vaccination requirements in Florida & Indian River County

Under Florida state law, all dogs four months of age or older are required to be vaccinated against rabies by a licensed veterinarian using an approved rabies vaccine.

After the initial rabies vaccine:

A booster is required one year later
Future boosters are required according to the vaccine’s labeled schedule (typically every one or three years)

In Indian River County, dogs are also required to have a current rabies vaccination in order to obtain and renew a county pet license. Proof of rabies vaccination is required for licensing and may be requested by animal control.

These regulations exist to protect pets, families, and the community as a whole.

A puppy getting it's paw examined at the vet

How rabies vaccination works at Mermaid SANDS

Mermaid SANDS is designed to focus on high-impact primary procedures, such as spay, neuter, and dental cleanings.

For that reason, rabies vaccination for dogs is offered as an add-on service for dogs already scheduled for a primary procedure. This allows us to operate efficiently while expanding access to essential care.

Rabies vaccines are not offered as standalone appointments at this time.

Is this service a good fit for my dog?

Rabies vaccination may be added to your dog’s visit if they:

Are already scheduled for a primary procedure
Meet basic health and safety requirements at the time of vaccination

Eligibility is reviewed during scheduling to ensure vaccination is appropriate.

Learn more about our eligibility and safety guidelines

What to expect at your pet’s visit

When rabies vaccination is added to a scheduled procedure:

The vaccine is administered by trained veterinary staff
Your pet is monitored for any immediate reactions
You’ll receive a rabies vaccination certificate documenting the date and vaccine details

Due to the size and scope of our clinic, rabies tags are not issued on-site. Rabies tags are provided by Indian River County and can be obtained directly through the county using your rabies certificate.

This approach allows us to remain focused on providing safe, efficient medical care while ensuring pets remain compliant with local regulations.

Most pets tolerate the rabies vaccine very well, with minimal and temporary side effects.