Conducted by County Department of Health, Clinics Address Serious Public Health Concern

ERIE COUNTY, NY— Today, Erie County Executive Mark C. Poloncarz, Commissioner of Health Dr. Gale Burstein and Erie County Legislator Lynn Marinelli (District 3) commented on the incredibly successful rabies clinic held at the American Legion Post #1041 on Amherst Street in Buffalo on Wednesday, May 30, 2012.   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.

The three hour long clinic, supervised by Erie County Commissioner of Health Dr. Gale Burstien and Supervising Public Health Sanitarian Peter Trippi,  had a record turnout of 1,299 dogs, cats and ferrets.

“We must protect families and their pets from rabies, and these free clinics are a great way to do that,” said Poloncarz. “I encourage pet owners around the County to take advantage of this program by bringing their pet to the clinic, either on a leash or in a carrier, and if possible to bring along the animal’s vaccination record as well.”

“With warm weather already here, there is an increased chance of contact between wildlife, humans, and their pets,” added Burstein. “These vaccinations are a good, no-cost way to minimize any problems that may arise from this contact. Any exposure to a wild animal, or bites from a dog or cat, should be reported immediately to the Health Department at 858-7690.”

 “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,” Legislator Lynn Marinelli (D-Buffalo, Tonawanda) said. “These clinics are a great way to fight rabies disease, and the previous clinic held in North Buffalo this past winter had a record-setting seasonal attendance. I urge everyone to bring their dog, cat, or ferret in for a vaccination.”

Additional clinics will be held in September 2012 with more details to follow.