The Garrett County Health Department’s Environmental Health Unit announces this spring’s low-cost rabies clinics for the vaccination of dogs, cats, and ferrets at four locations.
“Garrett County has had one case of laboratory-confirmed rabies this year,” said Bryce Manges, Environmental Health Specialist. “Protect your pets and your family from the threat of this virus by bringing your dogs, cats, and ferrets to the clinic in your area.”
The schedule is as follows:
- Grantsville Elementary School, Monday, May 12, 5:00 PM – 6:00 PM
- Swanton Community Building, Tuesday, May 13, 5:00 PM – 6:00 PM
- Friendsville Elementary School, Wednesday, May 14, 5:00 PM – 6:00 PM
- Oakland, Garrett County Health Department, Friday, May 16, 5:30 PM – 6:30 PM
The cost of the vaccination is $5 per animal at the clinics. Dogs must be on a leash and under the control of a responsible individual. Cats and ferrets must be brought to the clinic in a cage or a tightly secured box with air holes. If a cage or carrier is not available, the cat must be carried in a pillowcase or suitable cloth sack. Close contact of animals at the clinics increases the risk of bites or scratches. Please be prepared to restrain and control your animals in order to avoid a potential incident.
The Centers for Control of Disease and Prevention (CDC) describes rabies as a preventable viral disease of mammals that is transmitted through the bite of a rabid animal. The rabies virus infects the central nervous system, ultimately causing disease in the brain and leading to death. Rabies in both humans and pets is preventable by following proper procedures and guidelines.
Maryland law requires dogs, cats, and ferrets over four months of age to be vaccinated against rabies, however, they may be adequately vaccinated at three months of age. Dogs and cats need to be revaccinated every three years. Puppies and kittens vaccinated between the ages of three and twelve months, and dogs and cats receiving their first vaccination, must be revaccinated 12 months later. Ferrets need to be revaccinated every year.
“The vaccination of dogs and cats is one of the most critical measures that can be taken by pet owners in protecting their families and themselves from possible exposure to the rabies virus,” Manges said. Unvaccinated dogs and cats exposed to rabid animals face the possibility of being euthanized to protect their owners and the general public. The grief that can come from losing a family pet can be avoided by keeping vaccinations current.
Failure to vaccinate pets against rabies in Maryland is a violation of the Annotated Code of MD Health General Article 18, Section 31,8 and may be punishable by a fine of up to $500 per animal. For more information about rabies or these clinics, call Environmental Health at 301-334-7760.
