EC Department of Health, Partners Provide Protection for Dogs, Cats, & Ferrets

ERIE COUNTY, NY— Today, Erie County Executive Mark C. Poloncarz was joined by Health Commissioner Dr. Gale Burstein and Erie County legislator Lynn Marinelli (D-Buffalo, Tonawanda) to announce upcoming rabies clinics to be held in September. The clinics, conducted by the Erie 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.

“Earlier this year, hundreds of pet owners protected their animals and families from rabies by bringing them for free vaccinations at our springtime rabies clinics,” said Poloncarz. “It is the law that all dogs and cats in Erie County get vaccinated against rabies and this program is a great, free way for all citizens to follow the law.  I would like to thank the Department of Health and their partners for working together to provide this vital service to residents, and I encourage pet owners around the County to take advantage of the program this September.”

“Rabies is always a concern following the hot summer months, with an increased chance of contact between wildlife, pets, and humans,” Burstein added. “Bringing your pet in for a no-cost vaccination is a good way to avoid problems and protect your family friend. Any exposure to a wild animal, or bites from a dog or cat, should be reported immediately to the Health Department at 858-7690.”

Legislator Marinelli said, “These clinics are among the most popular services that Erie County provides. Since the spread of rabies is easily preventable, it’s important to provide these vaccinations to keep citizens and pets safe and healthy. We provide this service to the community thanks to our staff and volunteers with the Erie County Health Department, the Niagara Frontier Veterinarians Society and the SPCA.”

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

• Wednesday, September 4, 2013:     4:00 PM – 7:00 PM,  Town of Tonawanda Highway Garage, 450 Woodward Avenue (off of Military Rd.), Tonawanda
  
• Wednesday, September 11, 2013:   4:00 PM – 7:00 PM, Erie County Fire Training Academy, 3359 Broadway (near Union Rd.), Cheektowaga
  
• Wednesday, September 18, 2013:    4:00 PM – 7:00 PM, Erie Community College North Campus, Noonan Center Maintenance Garage, 6205 Main Street (off of Youngs Rd. or Tech Dr.), Amherst