Before a first groom, it helps to have your dog's rabies certificate in hand. Here's what New York law and the Town of Perinton require of Fairport dog owners.
Rabies Vaccination
New York Public Health Law §2141 requires dogs, cats and ferrets to have their first rabies vaccination no later than four months after birth. The State Department of Health says a second shot is due within a year of the first, that your vet will give you a certificate as proof, and that owners of unvaccinated pets can be fined up to $200 per offense.
The American Kennel Club advises choosing a groomer that requires proof of vaccination from all pets, which protects your dog as much as anyone's.
Free Rabies Clinics in Monroe County
Monroe County sponsors free rabies clinics for dogs, cats and ferrets. Pets must be at least 3 months old. In 2026 Perinton's clinic was on Saturday, June 6, at 100 Cobbs Lane in Fairport, and the town says the clinic returns in 2027. Check the county schedule in the spring.
Dog Licenses in Fairport and Perinton
Under Agriculture and Markets Law §109, the owner of any dog reaching four months old must apply for a dog license. The Perinton Town Clerk issues dog licenses for the Town of Perinton and the Village of Fairport, in person or by mail, with proof of current rabies vaccination.
| Perinton dog license | Fee |
|---|---|
| Spayed or neutered | $10 |
| Not spayed or neutered | $20 |
| Owner over 65 | $5 off |
Do Groomers Need a License?
New York doesn't license dog groomers today. Bills to register pet groomers (S6963) and license pet grooming facilities (A1108) were sent back to committee in January 2026. Until then, ask a groomer how long they've been grooming and how they handle nervous dogs.
Shots done? Call (585) 844-8318 to book a groom in Fairport, or start with puppy grooming.
Sources: NY Public Health Law §2141, NY Department of Health rabies fact sheet, Monroe County rabies clinics, Town of Perinton rabies clinics, NY Agriculture and Markets Law §109, Town of Perinton dog licenses, NY Senate bill S6963, NY Assembly bill A1108, AKC puppy timeline.