Each year, people in the U.S. still die from rabies—a disease that is 100% preventable. That’s not just tragic. It’s unacceptable.

A recent report by NBC News shows rabies deaths in the U.S. are rising. Most cases come from bat exposures, and too many people don’t get treatment in time—often because they don’t realize they’ve been exposed or can’t afford the cost. Rabies post-exposure shots can run over $3,000 without insurance. But even before exposure happens, there’s a powerful way to prevent rabies from spreading: vaccinate the animals we care for in our communities.

We’re calling on state and local public health departments across the U.S. to fully fund free rabies vaccination programs at public animal shelters and low-cost community clinics. These programs should cover both pets and stray animals brought in for care, particularly in areas where wildlife exposure is common.

In many low-income and rural areas, access to affordable pet vaccines is limited. When pets aren’t vaccinated, the risk to humans rises—especially when people interact with animals that have been exposed to rabid wildlife. And if someone is bitten or scratched, they may not realize how serious the risk is until it’s too late.

No one should die of rabies in the United States—not in 2025, not ever again. This is a disease we already know how to stop. What’s missing isn’t a cure. It’s access.

Join us in urging public health leaders to invest in prevention, not just reaction. A simple shot at the right time could save countless lives—human and animal alike.

Sign this petition to demand free rabies vaccines at shelters and clinics in every state. Lives depend on it.