By Blake Jackson
The Dutchess County Department of Health (DCDOH) has partnered with the Hudson Valley Animal Rescue & Sanctuary (HVARS) to host a free rabies vaccination clinic on Saturday, November 22, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Amenia Town Hall, located at 4988 State Route 22.
The clinic will offer vaccinations for dogs, cats, and domestic ferrets aged three months and older. Pre-registration is required, beginning Wednesday, November 5, at hvars.org.
This event is free for Dutchess County residents, while non-residents will be charged $15 per pet. Dogs must be leashed, and cats or ferrets must be secured in carriers.
Vaccinations will be valid for three years with proof of prior immunization; otherwise, they will be valid for one year. Additional services include microchipping for $45 per pet and a one-year distemper vaccine for $25 per pet.
According to New York State law, all dogs, cats, and ferrets must receive a rabies vaccination by the age of four months, with owners required to maintain updated immunizations. Failure to comply may result in fines up to $200.
Residents who encounter animals behaving unusually should contact local authorities. Anyone whose pet or family member is bitten or comes into contact with a potentially rabid animal should call DCDOH at 845-486-3404 (Mon-Fri, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.) or 845-431-6465 (after hours). For more information, visit dutchessny.gov/rabies or email ehs@dutchessny.gov.
Photo Credit: E-plus-photo
Categories: New York, General