Westchester County Offering Free Rabies Vaccination Clinic for Pets

Residents of Westchester County can bring their dogs, cats, and ferrets to receive a free rabies vaccine. Appointments are required and can be made by calling (914) 941-2896 extension 110. Those attending should bring proof of prior rabies vaccinations if available. Each pet must be supervised by an adult, with cats and ferrets in carriers and dogs on leashes. Aggressive dogs must be muzzled, or they will not be examined.

Health Commissioner Dr. Sherlita Amler emphasized the importance of ensuring pets are vaccinated to protect both animals and families from rabies. New York State law mandates that dogs and cats receive their first rabies shot by four months of age, a second shot within one year, and then boosters every one or three years, depending on the vaccine type. Noncompliance can lead to fines up to $2,000.

Rabies is a deadly disease transmitted through bites or saliva from infected animals. Incidents of rabies exposure have been reported in Westchester, involving encounters with stray cats, raccoons, skunks, coyotes, and even a bear cub. Bats are also known carriers. Pets are particularly vulnerable to rabies from contact with wildlife.

For pets that are current with rabies vaccinations, a booster will suffice within five days of exposure to a known or suspected rabid animal, while those not up-to-date may face quarantine or euthanasia.

Initial signs of rabies in animals can include unusual aggression, submissive behavior, or changes in demeanor such as lack of fear or sudden irritability. Other signs may involve staggering, drooling, or foam around the mouth.

In the event of animal bites, it is crucial to wash the wound with warm soapy water, report the incident to both a doctor and the Health Department at (914) 813-5000, and follow the instructions for emergencies after hours.

Dr. Amler advised that if anyone is bitten or scratched by another person's pet, they should immediately wash the wound, seek medical help, contact the Health Department, and obtain the owner's details for rabies vaccination verification to potentially avoid rabies treatment.

Residents are urged to avoid contact with wild or unknown animals and teach children to do the same. Many individuals have put themselves at risk by trying to help apparently sick or lost animals. For any erratic behavior observed in wildlife, residents should keep their distance and notify local authorities.

For any pet involved in a fight, gloves should be worn when handling the pet, and both the veterinarian and local animal control should be contacted. If a pet is exposed to a suspect rabid animal, maintaining visual contact until help arrives is important.

Should a pet bite or scratch someone, it is essential to confine the pet and notify the Health Department immediately. Keeping pet vaccinations current as required by law is crucial. For more information on rabies and prevention measures, visit the Health Department's website or follow them on social media.