The Rockland County Department of Health has announced a free rabies vaccination clinic for pets belonging to local residents. The clinic will take place on Sunday, April 28, 2024, from 9:00 am to 12:00 pm at the Rockland County Fire Training Center, located at 35 Firemens Memorial Drive, Pomona, NY.
This initiative is part of an ongoing effort to prevent the spread of rabies, a deadly disease that poses a significant threat to both animals and humans. Mandar Mhatre, Public Health Technician II and Rabies Program Coordinator, emphasized the importance of vaccination: “Prevention is the best medicine! Please make sure that your animals are immunized against rabies, and that their vaccinations are kept up to date.”
To participate in the clinic, pet owners must schedule an appointment for each pet. Registration is available online at http://rcklnd.us/rabiesvax or by phone at (845) 364-2656 for those needing assistance with booking. Although the vaccinations are free, a $5 donation per animal is suggested to help cover costs.
Pet owners are advised to arrive no more than 15 minutes before their scheduled appointment to ensure a smooth flow of traffic and minimal waiting times. For the safety of all involved, dogs must be leashed, and cats or ferrets must be either leashed or in a carrier.
New York State law mandates that all dogs, cats, and domesticated ferrets be vaccinated against rabies by the age of four months. Owners who do not comply with this law may face fines up to $250. The Rockland County Health Department also reminds residents that all animal bites and animals suspected of having rabies must be reported immediately.
In the event of inclement weather, participants are encouraged to check Facebook.com/rocklandgov for any updates or cancellations before attending the clinic.
This vaccination event is an essential part of Rockland County’s public health efforts, aiming to protect the community and its pets from the dangers of rabies.