Municipal Anti-Rabies Vaccination Campaign begins this Saturday.

Published on 06/08/2026 - 14:31 | Updated on 06/08/2026 - 16:27
Dogs and cats of all sizes and weights will be vaccinated - Marcos de Paula / Rio City Hall

Next Saturday (August 8th), the Municipal Anti-Rabies Vaccination Campaign will kick off in the city of Rio. The first stage will take place in the neighborhoods of Centro, Zona Sul, Ilha do Governador, and Grande Tijuca. The Municipal Secretariat for Animal Protection and Defense will provide 125 vaccination posts, from 9 am to 5 pm. Vaccination is completely free and protects the animal against rabies.

The last case of rabies in dogs in the municipality of Rio was recorded in 1995. But in 2021 a dog was diagnosed in the neighboring city of Belford Roxo.

"To keep the disease under control, it is essential that pet owners take their pets to be vaccinated. Vaccinating is an act of love," says the Municipal Secretary for Animal Protection and Defense, Jeniffer Coelho Ramos. "Although rabies has been eradicated among dogs and cats, infected bats can come into contact with pets and infect them. Therefore, we cannot take chances. The vaccine is free and there are no contraindications," she adds.

In 2025, the Rio de Janeiro City Hall vaccinated 378.825 animals. This year, the department's goal is to increase the number of vaccinated dogs and cats by 20%.

Pregnant and sick animals cannot be vaccinated. There is no maximum age. Dogs and cats of all sizes and weights will be vaccinated. The animal only needs to be over three months old.

Aggressive animals must be brought to the vaccination post with a muzzle and on a leash. It is recommended that cats be transported in a carrier to prevent escapes. It is important to maintain a safe distance in line so that the animals do not fight. The animal must be accompanied by an adult.

The available vaccination sites They can be consulted on the internet..

In total, there will be five stages. The next neighborhoods and dates will be announced soon.

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