County Department of Health, Partners Team Up to Address Serious Public Health Concern

ERIE COUNTY, NY— Today, Erie County Executive Mark C. Poloncarz was joined by Health Commissioner Dr. Gale Burstein and Erie County Legislator Lynn Marinelli (District 3) to announce upcoming rabies clinics to be held in the month of May. The clinics, conducted by the County Department of Health in association with the Niagara Frontier Veterinary Society and the SPCA Serving Erie County, provide free rabies vaccinations for dogs, cats, and ferrets.

“With summer time approaching and bringing an increased chance for exposure to rabies, these free clinics provide an excellent way for pet owners to be sure that their animals are protected,” said Poloncarz. “Past clinics have had record-setting attendance, so it is obvious that these events are important to the community and play a key role in keeping pets and their owners safe. I want to thank the Department of Health and their partners for doing such good work in performing this vital service.”

“Rabies is a dangerous virus that anyone can get if they handle or get bitten by an animal that has the disease,” said Health Commissioner Burstein. “Erie County residents can protect themselves and their families from rabies by staying away from wild animals and ensuring that pets are vaccinated every year.”

Legislator Marinelli stated, “We must protect families and their pets from rabies, and these free clinics are a great way to do that. I applaud the efforts of the Health Department, the SPCA, and the Niagara Frontier Veterinary Society for working together to keep our community safe from rabies, and I urge pet owners to bring in their dog, cat, or ferret for a vaccination.”

            CLINIC DATES AND LOCATIONS FOR DOGS, CATS, AND FERRETS:

            Wednesday, May 22, 2013                    American Legion Post #1041
            4:00 – 7:00pm                                             533 Amherst St., Buffalo

            Wednesday, May 29, 2013                     Erie Community College – South Campus
            4:00 – 7:00pm                                              4041 Southwestern Boulevard, Orchard Park
                                                                                             Building #7 – Maintenance Garage (adjacent to the Erie County DMV)