West NY News

The Chautauqua County Health Department (CCHD) has announced a free rabies vaccination clinic, sponsored by the Town of Sherman and the CCHD. The clinic will provide vaccinations for dogs, cats, and domesticated ferrets aged three months and older.

The event is scheduled for Wednesday, August 28, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at the Town of Sherman Offices located at 111A Mill St., Sherman, NY 14781. Pre-registration is required and can be completed online by visiting HealthyCHQ.com/Rabies. There are limited spots available; hence pet owners are encouraged to register promptly. If registered but unable to attend, individuals should cancel their appointments via the confirmation email received upon registration to free up space for others.

During the clinic, vehicles will follow an established traffic pattern on-site. Pet owners are expected to remain in their vehicles with their pets unless instructed otherwise. Previous rabies vaccination records must be presented for each animal receiving a shot to ensure proper vaccination; clinic staff will verify these records. Dogs must be leashed, and cats must be in individual carriers. Animal handlers will transport animals from vehicles to veterinarians for vaccination.

New York State Public Health Law mandates that all dogs, cats, and domesticated ferrets over four months old be vaccinated against rabies. The CCHD encourages county residents to vaccinate their pets as part of responsible pet ownership.

Rabies is a severe disease caused by a virus affecting warm-blooded animals such as raccoons, bats, skunks, and foxes. It is transmitted through saliva via bites, scratches or open cuts and infects the central nervous system leading to brain swelling and death within days after symptoms appear.

For more information about the clinic contact the Town of Sherman at 716-761-6770 or visit HealthyCHQ.com/Rabies for general rabies information or contact Chautauqua County Health Department at (716) 753-4481.

The Chautauqua County Health Department is dedicated to supporting community health through innovative approaches providing technical assistance to partner organizations while offering various programs aimed at preventing disease and promoting overall wellness in Chautauqua County.