President Preckwinkle to Kick Off 2026 Partners in Prevention Rabies Vaccine and Microchip Clinics

Tue, 03/31/2026 - 12:00

Cook County’s Animal and Rabies Control hosts first clinic on Saturday, April 4

The Cook County Department of Animal and Rabies Control (ARC) is kicking off its 2026 Partners in Prevention clinics beginning Saturday, April 4. Through October, ARC is partnering with local animal organizations to offer free 1-year rabies vaccines and microchips. Some clinics are also offering distemper, leptospirosis and FVRCP vaccines. These partnerships ultimately link pet owners to organizations in their area for year-round pet care, helping to create a healthier pet community.

ARC has released the season’s clinic schedule. Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle will visit the first clinic at the River Grove American Legion, 8664 Grand Ave., River Grove, IL 60171 on April 4 between noon – 12:30 p.m.

Additional clinics may be added throughout the season and details for some current clinics may be updated so residents are encouraged to check the website before they go.

Approximately three dozen clinics are already scheduled for the 2026 season. ARC used data from Cook County’s Social Vulnerability Index (SVI) to help determine some of this year’s clinic locations. The SVI provides a comprehensive analysis, ranking community attributes including socioeconomic status, demographic factors, language proficiency, housing conditions and transportation availability. This data-driven approach ensures that clinics are positioned to serve communities where they are most needed, aligning with Cook County’s mission to deliver equitable healthcare services.

“This vital service provides free vaccines and other services to pets throughout Cook County,” said President Preckwinkle. “I am grateful to the County’s partners for coming together to safeguard our pet population.”

ARC reminds residents that rabies is always fatal to unvaccinated pets and is a preventable virus that causes inflammation of the brain in mammals. Rabies vaccines are required by law. For the first time in more than 40 years, Cook County saw a rabies case in a dog in late 2025, showcasing just how important staying current on vaccinations is in protecting both pets and people.

“Providing free or low-cost access to rabies vaccines is one way the County limits transmission,” said interim ARC Administrator Dr. Megan Carolan. “Last year, we administered more than 8,000 rabies vaccines and over 2,700 microchips to County pets. This critical program offers an affordable way to keep pets healthy and safe.”

ARC is partnering with the following organizations to host rabies vaccine and microchip clinics for cats and dogs: