Free Pet Vaccinations Today

Union County residents are encouraged to update their pets’ rabies vaccinations at any of the free, state or municipal-sponsored rabies clinics offered locally throughout the spring and summer months.

“Taking advantage of one of these free clinics is an easy and cost effective way to ensure the health and safety of your pet,” said Freeholder Chairman Alexander Mirabella.

The next local clinic will be held on Saturday, March 24, 2012 at the Hillside Public Works Garage at 274 Hillside Avenue, Hillside from 1 pm to 3 pm.

Although cats and dogs that spend more time outdoors may have a higher risk of contracting rabies, it is equally important for indoor pets to be vaccinated.   Rabies is usually passed from animal to animal, however it can be passed from animals to people.

The rabies virus is often seen among wild animals like raccoons, bats, skunks and foxes, but any mammal (warm blooded animal with fur) can be infected.  It is a deadly virus that infects the central nervous system causing disease in the brain and ultimately death.

Rabies is 100% preventable.  Animals can and should be vaccinated and people who have been bitten can receive vaccines to fight the disease. 

To prevent rabies remember to:

• Vaccinate your dogs, cats and ferrets against rabies
• Keep your pets under your supervision so they don’t come in contact with a wild animal
• Do not touch wild animals and if you see one acting strangely, call your local animal control officer or health department to report it
• If you are bitten or scratched by an animal, wash the wound with soap and water, and see your doctor as soon as possible

For more information, or for a listing of all upcoming rabies clinics in Union County visit www.ucnj.org.  All are welcome.