Hillsborough County is holding a free drive-thru pet vaccine clinic in Dover, offering dogs and cats rabies jabs, microchips, tags and registration at no cost.
The annual event is taking place at the Hillsborough County Fairgrounds on Sunday, October 11, from 10am to 2pm, or until supplies run out. More than 1,000 rabies vaccinations are available. ([hcfl.gov](https://hcfl.gov/newsroom/2026/10/08/hillsborough-to-hold-free-shot-clinic-for-dogs-cats-on-sunday-october-11-2026?utm_source=openai))
Free drive-thru pet vaccine clinic
The clinic is being run by the Hillsborough County Pet Resource Center at 215 Sydney Washer Road. Owners and their pets must remain in their vehicles throughout the process. ([hcfl.gov](https://hcfl.gov/newsroom/2026/10/08/hillsborough-county-to-offer-free-rabies-shots-microchips-for-dogs-and-cats?utm_source=openai))
Dogs and cats aged three months or older are eligible for the rabies vaccination. Pets that do not already have a microchip will receive one as part of the service.
Hillsborough County residents will also receive the required rabies tag and registration. People living outside the county can receive the vaccination and microchip, but must complete registration with the county where they live. ([hcfl.gov](https://hcfl.gov/newsroom/2026/10/08/hillsborough-to-hold-free-shot-clinic-for-dogs-cats-on-sunday-october-11-2026?utm_source=openai))
County officials say the initiative is intended to make essential veterinary care more affordable while helping owners meet rabies vaccination requirements. In Florida, dogs and cats aged four months and over must be vaccinated against the disease. ([hcfl.gov](https://hcfl.gov/residents/animals-and-pets/pet-ownership/have-pets-vaccinated-for-rabies?gt=1&utm_source=openai))
The drive-thru format is also designed to reduce the stress associated with visits to a veterinary surgery, allowing pets to remain with their owners rather than wait in a busy clinic.
