West NY News

The Chautauqua County Health Department has announced a free rabies vaccination clinic for dogs, cats, and domesticated ferrets aged three months and older. The clinic, co-sponsored by the Chautauqua County Humane Society, will take place on Saturday, April 20, 2024, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM at the Village of Falconer Highway Dept. 1 Coleson Drive. Pet owners are encouraged to pre-register online as soon as possible to secure a spot. Walk-ins may be accepted but are not guaranteed.

According to the Chautauqua County Health Department, "New York State Public Health Law requires each dog, cat, and domesticated ferret over the age of four months be vaccinated against rabies." To ensure proper vaccination, pet owners must bring previous rabies vaccination records for each animal receiving a shot. All dogs must be on a leash, and all cats must be in individual carriers. The clinic staff will confirm previous vaccination records.

Rabies is a serious disease that can be transmitted through saliva, bites, scratches, or open cuts. The virus infects the central nervous system and can be fatal within days of symptoms appearing. Common carriers of the disease include raccoons, bats, skunks, and foxes.

For more information about the clinic, individuals can contact the Chautauqua County Humane Society at 716-665-2209. General rabies information can be found at https://chqgov.com/environmental-health/rabies-prevention or by contacting the Chautauqua County Health Department at (716) 753-4481.

The Chautauqua County Health Department is dedicated to supporting the community's health and offers various programs and services to prevent disease and promote overall health and wellness. More information about the department can be found at www.HealthyCHQ.com.