The Herkimer County Public Health Department received word last
Monday from Wadsworth Labs that a skunk tested positive for rabies.
The skunk was found on a farm in the town of Warren.
The farmer’s dog and cats were up to date on their rabies shots, and
were given booster shots for precautionary measure because of possible
exposure from the skunk.
Herkimer County Public Health would like to remind residents to
check their pets’ rabies vaccination records to make sure they are up
to date. A spokesperson for the health department said if they are not
up to date, you should make an appointment with a vet as soon as
possible to have them vaccinated against rabies.
Rabies is a deadly disease caused by a virus that attacks the
nervous system. The virus is present in the saliva and nervous tissue
of a rabid animal. Vaccinated pets serve as a buffer between rabid
wildlife and man. Protect them, and you may reduce your risk of
exposure to rabies.
Vaccines for dogs, cats and ferrets after three months of age are
effective for a one-year period. Revaccinations in dogs and cats are
effective for up to three years. Pets too young to be vaccinated should
be kept indoors.
The health department’s first rabies clinic is scheduled for Tuesday, March 28, at the Norway Community Center from 6-7:30 p.m.
The rest of the clinics are as follows:
• Thursday, May 18, at the Dolgeville Firehouse from 6-7:30 p.m.
• Thursday, June 15, at the West Schuyler Firehouse from 6-7:30 p.m.
• Thursday, August 3, at the East Herkimer Firehouse from 6-7:30 p.m.
• Thursday, Sept. 14, at the Old Forge Firehouse from 5-6:30 p.m.
• Wednesday, Oct. 4, at the town garage in Columbia from 6-7:30 p.m.
• Saturday, Nov. 4, at the East Herkimer Firehouse from 12-2:30 p.m.
• Our clinics are free to the public, however, donations are greatly
appreciated. Animals must be three months of age or older. Animals must
be in a carrier or on a leash. Bring any prior rabies certificate with
you.
If you have any questions, call 315-867-1430 between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m.
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