PetTally — free on iPhoneEvery vaccine & record, on your phone
Get
Every year? Every three? It depends on the vaccine and where you live — here's the simple version, plus what to do if your dog is overdue.
Updated October 2026
First shot at about 12–16 weeks, a booster one year later, then every 1 or 3 years depending on the vaccine used and your state or city law. Your rabies certificate shows the exact expiry date.
| When | What |
|---|---|
| 12–16 weeks | First rabies shot (minimum age set by law and the vaccine — commonly 12 weeks). Considered protected about 28 days later. |
| 1 year later | First booster — always one year after the first shot, whatever vaccine was used. |
| After that | Every 1 or 3 years, depending on the vaccine's label and your state or city law. |
Both are licensed and effective. The difference is how long the label says protection lasts. Many states accept the 3-year interval after the first booster; some localities require yearly shots. Your vet knows your local rule — and the certificate shows the expiry date, which is what groomers, kennels and landlords check.
For dogs, in most states, yes — and many cities require it for cats too. A few states have no statewide rule but leave it to counties and cities. Even where it isn't required, almost every groomer, boarding kennel, daycare and landlord will ask for a current rabies certificate.
Get the booster as soon as you can and keep proof of the earlier vaccination — an overdue dog with records is treated very differently from one with none if there's ever a rabies exposure. If you can't find the old certificate, use the tag number or see how to get lost records back.
Cats follow the same pattern: first shot from about 12 weeks, a booster a year later, then every 1 or 3 years depending on the vaccine and local law. Indoor cats still need it where the law requires it — and boarding or grooming will ask.
PetTally tracks every vaccine expiry, reminds you before boosters, and keeps the certificate on your phone. Free on iPhone.
Get PetTally FreeThe first shot is given at about 12–16 weeks, a booster one year later, then every 1 or 3 years depending on the vaccine and your state or local law.
Both are licensed vaccines. The 3-year product is labeled for longer protection; whether the 3-year interval is allowed depends on your state or city law.
In many places, yes — rabies vaccination of cats is required by law in many states and cities, and boarding and grooming facilities will ask for it.
Get a booster as soon as possible and keep your old records. Many groomers, kennels and landlords won't accept an expired certificate.
Related: Puppy shot schedule chart · Rabies tag lookup · What shots groomers require
Sources: NASPHV rabies recommendations (dvm360) · Rabies vaccination laws by state (Animal Legal & Historical Center)
General information, not veterinary or legal advice. Rabies schedules are set by vaccine labels and state and local law — your veterinarian will confirm what applies.