Kane County is handing out free revaccinations for pets that received one-year rabies shots at county clinics last year, after the vaccine maker recalled certain doses that may have lost potency. County officials emphasize this is a precautionary move, not an emergency, and say the recall does not mean animals are sick. Instead, testing suggested some shots might not have provided full protection for the entire 12-month period that owners were counting on.
The county has already mailed letters to owners of several hundred animals and is setting up voluntary revaccination appointments, Kane County Animal Control administrator Brett Youngsteadt told the Daily Herald. Youngsteadt said the recall applies to one-year vaccines given during August through October 2025, after the manufacturer launched a voluntary recall when April testing of some vials showed diminished potency. The county says replacement shots will be given at no cost to pet owners.
Elanco supplied roughly 400 replacement doses to Kane County Animal Control, and the county noted that some of the affected one-year vaccines expire as early as August, according to CBS Chicago. Pet owners who want a booster can book a slot by calling Kane County Animal Control at 630-232-3555.
How to check whether your pet was affected
To see if your pet is in the recall group, start with the lot number on your pet's rabies certificate and compare it with lists posted by clinics or shelters. Several providers have publicly shared the affected serials, as reported by WIAT. Elanco has told local outlets that the affected serials passed initial release testing, but later stability testing showed they did not always maintain the required potency for the full 12 months. Your veterinarian can review your records and advise whether your animal should get an early booster.
Where to go for a replacement
Kane County says revaccinations are voluntary and available by appointment. Owners should call Kane County Animal Control at 630-232-3555 to schedule a booster. Local veterinarians and shelters may also provide replacement shots, and Elanco recommends that pet owners consult their vet about revaccination and follow the guidance of local public health officials.
