Oyster Bay Holding Free Rabies Vaccination Clinic For Pets

SYOSSET, NY — The Town of Oyster Bay Animal Shelter will be holding a free rabies vaccination clinic for dogs, cats and ferrets on Sept. 11 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Residents can bring their pets to the shelter, located at 150 Miller Place in Syosset, to get the important vaccination. No reservations are needed.

"We consider our pets to be members of our family and want to do everything possible to protect them from harm and poor health," said Councilwoman Laura Maier. "Pet owners can take advantage of this free vaccination clinic, which protects our pets and our families."

State law requires that all dogs, cats and domesticated ferrets be vaccinated against rabies. If an unvaccinated pet comes into contact with an animal with rabies, the pet must either be strictly quarantined for six months or euthanized. But if a vaccinated pet is exposed, it only needs to get a rabies booster shot. It is recommended for dogs, cats and ferrets older than four months receive their first two shots one year apart and additional booster shots every three years thereafter.

At the vaccination event, dogs must be on leash at all times and cats and ferrets must be in enclosed carriers.

The clinic also offers to microchip pets for $25. Microchips carry a unique identification number for a pet so if they ever get lost they can be taken to a vet clinic or animal shelter where they will be scanned for the unique microchip ID number. No reservations are necessary for microchipping.

For more information, contact the Town of Oyster Bay Animal Shelter at (516) 677-5784 or visit www.oysterbaytown.com.