Oswego County Health Department to Host Rabies Vaccination Clinic for Local Pets on May 1

The Oswego County Health Department plans to host a rabies vaccination clinic on May 1 at the Fulton Community Center. The clinic will be open from 6 to 8 p.m. by appointment only, aiming to prevent the spread of this serious viral disease. Katelyn Parkhurst, Oswego County Director of Environmental Health, stressed the need for pets to have up-to-date vaccinations to protect them and their families.

From April 24, residents can make appointments for the clinic by calling 315-349-3564 on weekdays between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. The department asks residents not to use the after-hours answering service for scheduling. If unable to keep an appointment, residents are asked to cancel to allow others to schedule.

The clinic suggests a donation of $7 per pet and has established several rules for attendees. These include a limit of four pets per family, pets must be caged or leashed, and children are advised not to enter the building unless necessary. Attendees should arrive no more than 10 minutes early and follow signs and instructions from clinic staff.

New York State Public Health Law requires all dogs, cats, and ferrets to be vaccinated against rabies. The first vaccine should be given at three months of age, with a second vaccination for dogs and cats within one year, and every three years thereafter. Ferrets must be vaccinated annually. Animals under three months are not eligible for a rabies vaccination.

The Oswego County Health Department has provided a contact number for reporting animal bites or seeking advice about potential rabies exposure. The department collaborates with residents and health care providers to determine if rabies treatment is necessary. More information about rabies is available on the Oswego County Health Department's website and the CDC's website.

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