The Nassau County Department of Health in New York is partnering with North Shore Animal League America to offer a free rabies vaccination clinic for cats and dogs from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Saturday, July 22.
The clinic, which is open to all Nassau County residents, will be held at North Shore Animal League Americas headquarters in Port Washington, N.Y.
Also during the clinic, North Shore Animal League America will offer microchipping and wellness exams for cats and dogs at a reduced rate. Rabies vaccinations will also be offered to non-Nassau county residents for a reduced fee.
Rabies is transmitted by the bite of a rabid animal. However, the virus may also be transmitted when the saliva of a rabid animal comes into contact with cut, open or scratched skin lesions.
New York State law requires all cats, dogs and domesticated ferrets to be vaccinated against rabies. If an unvaccinated pet or one that's overdue on its vaccination comes in contact with a rabid or suspected rabid animal, the pet must either be euthanized or strictly quarantined for six months.
However, if a vaccinated animal comes into contact with a wild animal, it needs only a booster vaccination, but this immunization must be administered within five days of exposure.
For general information regarding rabies, visit the Nassau County Department of Health website at: www.NassauCountyNY.gov/Health.
Posted: July 19, 2006, 5:00 a.m. EST