MOUNT VERNON — Spring is in the air and that means everyone is spending more time outside. That includes people and pets, which increases the chance to come in contact with a rabid animal. Pet owners who have not had a chance to get a rabies vaccination for their pet, can do so on Saturday.
The Knox County Health Department and Knox County Humane Society will sponsor a rabies immunization clinic Saturday, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the garage located behind the health department, 11660 Upper Gilchrist Road.
The clinic is for dogs, cats and ferrets.
“We recommend that all pets, those kept outside and inside, be vaccinated for rabies,” said Terri Hiller, R.S., who investigates animal bites for the health department. “A few years ago we had two rabies cases involving inside cats that came in contact with rabid bats. So, it’s important to have all of your pets vaccinated.”
One-year and three-year vaccinations will be offered. Proof of last year’s vaccinations will be needed to receive the three-year vaccination. There is a charge. No nursing, pregnant or sick animals will be treated. The clinic veterinarian, Dr. Brian Wennerstrom, will have the final say on whether an animal receives the rabies vaccination.
Dogs should be brought to the clinic on a leash; cats and ferrets should be contained in a carrier. Pet owners will be required to complete paperwork on site for record-keeping purposes. Vaccinated dogs will receive a rabies tag that can be attached to the animal’s collar; cat and ferret owners will receive a receipt for vaccine verification.
For more information, contact the Knox County Humane Society at 740-392-2287.
Published on April 14, 2012
