Free Rabies Vaccination Clinic for Pets in Westchester County

Residents of Westchester County are invited to bring their dogs, cats, and ferrets for vaccinations. Appointments are required and can be made by calling (914) 941-2896 extension 110. Participants should bring proof of any prior rabies vaccinations, if available. It is important that pets are supervised by an adult; cats and ferrets should be transported in carriers, and dogs must be on leashes. Aggressive dogs must wear muzzles to receive an examination.

Health Commissioner Dr. Sherlita Amler emphasized the importance of maintaining current rabies vaccinations for pets to protect both animals and families from potential exposure to 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 follow-up boosters every one or three years depending on the vaccine type. Noncompliance can result in fines up to $2,000.

Rabies is a lethal disease transmitted through bites or saliva from infected animals, including encounters with stray and feral cats, raccoons, skunks, coyotes, foxes, and even a bear cub reported in Westchester. Bats can also be carriers. Pets are at risk if they come into contact with wild or stray animals.

Pets that are up-to-date on their rabies vaccinations will only require a booster shot within five days if they are exposed to a known or suspected rabid animal. In contrast, animals without current vaccinations may face quarantine or euthanasia after such contact.

Behavioral changes in animals, such as unexpected aggression, excessive docility, or unusual agitation, might indicate rabies. Infected animals may also display staggering, excessive salivation, or foam at the mouth.

In the event of an animal bite, it is crucial to wash the bite with warm, soapy water and report it to both a doctor and the Health Department at (914) 813-5000. After hours, there are recorded instructions for public health emergencies.

Dr. Amler advises that if you or someone else is bitten by a pet, it is important to wash the wound immediately, seek medical care, contact the Health Department, and obtain the pet owner's information to verify vaccination records, potentially avoiding extensive rabies treatment.

Residents are advised against touching wild animals or unfamiliar pets, regardless of their appearance, and are encouraged to inform children about this as well. Concerns about an erratically behaving animal should be directed to local law enforcement or animal control.

If a pet fights with another animal, use gloves to handle your pet, contact a veterinarian, and alert local animal control. If exposure to a suspected rabid animal occurs, attempt to keep the pet in sight until help arrives.

Should a pet bite or scratch someone, the owner should confine the pet and notify the Health Department immediately. Maintaining current rabies vaccinations is a legal requirement, and pet owners should verify their pets' vaccination records with their vets.

For more information on rabies and its prevention, visit the Health Department’s website at www.westchestergov.com/health, or follow them on Facebook and Twitter.