The city will give out free rabies shots for dogs and cats in Staten Island on Saturday, March 25th after a record number of rabid animals were reported in the borough last year. The city’s Department of Health will give out the rabies vaccinations at Blue Heron Park from 10am to 2pm, to safeguard the borough’s four-legged friends after 49 rabid animals were found in 2016, according to the agency. “The large number of rabies cases in our borough demonstrates the need to protect our pets,” said Borough President James Oddo in a statement. “I know that our pets become part of our families. This is a great way to protect them at no cost.” The 49 rabid animals last year was the highest number since the agency started to keep track in 1992, the department said. Throughout the borough 44 raccoons, 2 skunks, an opossum, a bat and a cat in Bloomingdale Park were found to have the virus. The previous record was 35, and the borough has averaged roughly seven reports of rabid animals per year, the Health Department said. To get the shot, animals need to be in good health, at least three months old, and dogs need to be licensed, the Health Department said. Unlicensed dogs can register at the event, and the city will not fine or issue late fees to owners of unregistered animals. The Health Department said the vaccination was the best way to protect pets from getting infected with rabies, and city law requires every puppy or kitten to get their first shot between three and four months old. The animals need to get a booster shot a year later, and then every one to four years after that, the Health Department said. For those planning to attend, it is strongly encouraged that you call or email Council Member Joseph Borelli’s office to RSVP and reserve a place. Walk-ins are always welcome but space and time are limited and priority will be given to those who have RSVP’d. Contact Info:
CM Borelli’s Office – 718 984 5151
CM Borelli’s Office Email – [email protected]
If you’re looking for someone who’ll go bananas every time they see your dog or cat, knows them so well they notice one hair out of place, speaks their language, knows their favorite treat AND movie and most of all become their second favorite human in the whole world, then you’ve found the right person! Lisa resides in Westerleigh and is a Dogtec Certified Dog Walker, NYC Certified in Animal Care and Handling, FEMA Animals in Disasters Certified, a Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) and Feral Colony Care Specialist and Red Cross Pet First Aid Certified.
