Dutchess County Offering Free Rabies Vaccinations For Pets

The Dutchess County Department of Behavioral & Community Health has announced that a free rabies clinic will be held this month in Dutchess County.

In partnership with the Dutchess County SPCA, this clinic will offer Dutchess County residents the opportunity to obtain rabies shots free of charge for their dogs, cats, and domestic ferrets 3 months of age and older.

Proof of residency is required. Non-residents will be charged $10 for each pet vaccinated.

DBCH Commissioner A. K. Vaidian, MD, MPH said:

Our vaccination clinic for household pets offers dog, cat and ferret owners an opportunity to receive a rabies vaccine that will provide them with the protection they need should they encounter a rabid animal. I am especially pleased to have the Dutchess County SPCA assist us with administering these vaccines.

The clinic will be held on Saturday, August 24, at the Dutchess County SPCA, located at 636 Violet Avenue in Hyde Park from 8 a.m. to noon with convenient on-site parking.

All dogs must be on a leash, and cats and domestic ferrets must be in carriers.

Vaccinations will be good for three years for pets with proper proof of prior immunization. For those without proof, the vaccination will be good for one year.

In New York State, rabies shots are required for all cats, dogs, and domestic ferrets by the age of four months. Revaccination is then required on a regular schedule to keep the animal properly immunized against the rabies virus. Owners can be fined up to $200 if they fail to get their pets vaccinated and keep them up-to-date.

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