Southgate Veterinary Hospital requires our patients to be vaccinated and stay up to date against rabies to receive services at our clinic. Click Here for More Information

NBC news story released on Aug. 31, 2025- CDC surveillance shows outbreaks of rabies rising across the U.S.

How does this affect us in Fargo-Moorhead?  
Our area has had reported cases of rabies. Rabies is nearly 100% fatal once symptoms appear, making prevention critical. People exposed to a suspected rabid animal undergo post-exposure prophylaxis, a series of injections required to help the body fight off a possible rabies infection.  
It’s the law! Within the Fargo–Moorhead-West Fargo city limits, all dogs and cats are legally required to be up to date on their rabies vaccination.  Veterinary professionals are at a three-times higher exposure risk to a rabid animal than the public. For the health, safety, and protection of our team members and the community,

Southgate Veterinary Hospital requires our patients to be vaccinated and stay up to date against rabies to receive services at our clinic.  

 

Common questions: 
What if I am bit by a dog or cat?
This could be a public health concern. You should: contact the owner of the dog or cat to verify vaccination status, contact the local police department, and contact your medical provider.

What if my pet is bit by another dog or cat?
This could be a public health concern. You should: contact the owner of the dog or cat to verify vaccination status, contact your veterinary office, and determine if the local police department needs to get involved.

What if my pet is bit by wildlife?  
This could be a public health concern. Contact your veterinarian.  The only way to confirm a rabies infection is by testing non-frozen brain material.  If the wild animal needs to be tested, safety precautions must be used when handling the wild animal.

Do I need to vaccinate my pet if I live in an apartment?
Yes, all dogs and cats within local city limits and surrounding areas are legally required to be kept up to date on their rabies vaccination.

For more information on the human rabies vaccine series, visit the ND Gov website: Rabies Vaccine Information | Health and Human Services North Dakota

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We Love Our Clients and Patients

We know you have a lot of choices when choosing the best Fargo, ND, veterinary hospital, and we’re happy that you’ve decided to join the Southgate Veterinary Hospital family. Your kind words and feedback help us continue to provide over-the-top service to you and your pet. If you enjoyed your visit, please use the buttons below to leave us a five-star review on Google and Facebook.

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Nice staff nice comments from them. Our cat Prince seemed very comfortable with them and wasn’t uneasy at all. They took very good care of him. One staff came to say goodbye to him. Pretty cool!

Ron Pink

This is the only place I’ll take my boys. They are kind and considerate of the needs of my cats not only for their health but to try and eliminate as much stress as possible. They are always happy to see them and make me feel comfortable leaving my boys in their care.

Mallory

Was unsure about my dogs condition and what to do. It was an uncomfortable condition to discuss but the people at Southgate were sensitive and patient in our talk. I brought him to the right place and I’m very grateful to the people at Southgate for their help. My dog is happy and healthy now.

David “Chris” Polasky

Have worked with a couple veterinarians and veterinary technicians here and been quite happy! Every time they make me feel like they are fully addressing my concerns and regular health topics. I see myself coming here for years to come! Been especially pleased with their communication, fair pricing, and friendliness!

Brian Smart

Great staff, appointments have always been on time, and my questions always get answered. Have been taking my cat here for a long time and I’ve never had anything but great service and quality pet care. I would definitely recommend to others.

Keshia Kay Anderson

The staff is always professional, friendly and helpful. We trust them in helping us give our dog the fullest and happiest life possible.

Anne Marie Turk