FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: September 20, 2012
MEDIA CONTACTS: Collin Nash & Sid Nathan | (516) 869-7794
Town-Sponsored Clinic Breaks Record for Rabies Vaccinations
New Cassel, NY– Supervisor Jon Kaiman and Councilwoman Viviana L. Russell were pleased to announce that a record number of cats and dogs were vaccinated for rabies last week at a free clinic, held at the North Hempstead “Yes We Can” Community Center in New Cassel on September 12th, 2012.
The free rabies clinic for pets was made possible through a partnership with the Nassau County Board of Health.
104 rabies vaccinations were administered, a new record. In addition, 14 dogs were newly licensed and 7 owners had their dog licenses renewed.
Rabies, an acute viral disease of the nervous system, 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 a cut or scratched skin lesions.
New York State law requires all dogs, cats and domesticated ferrets to be vaccinated against rabies. If an unvaccinated pet or one that is overdue on its vaccination comes in contact with a rabid or suspected rabid animal, the pet must either be destroyed 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. If you care for your family and your pet, it is absolutely essential that your animals have up-to-date rabies vaccinations.
For information on future clinics, please call 311.