On Sunday, October 2, 2016, from 12 noon to 3:00 p.m., Loudoun County Animal Services is partnering with local veterinarians to host a low-cost Rabies Vaccination Clinic for cats and dogs at two convenient locations in Loudoun.
With the goal of vaccinating 150 local pets, veterinarians will provide affordable vaccines at the Loudoun County Animal Shelter, 39820 Charles Town Pike, in Waterford; and at the Animal Medical Center of Cascades, 20789 Algonkian Parkway, #160, in Sterling. Rabies vaccinations will be provided for dogs and cats over the age of 12 weeks, at a cost of $15.00 per cat and $25.00 per dog. Dogs with an existing county-required license will have their license automatically renewed and unlicensed dogs will receive a new license at no extra cost. Pet owners should bring any prior vaccination records, and transport cats securely in a carrier and dogs on a leash of six feet or less.
“Last year in Loudoun County, we had 16 confirmed cases of rabies in wildlife. The disease is fatal when transmitted to pets and people, but completely preventable, so this clinic is a great opportunity for pet owners to keep their dogs, cats and families safe,” says Nina Stively, Director of Loudoun County Animal Services. “Our county has made remarkable progress in the prevention of rabies, but regular vaccination of pets plays a critical role in ensuring that we keep that forward momentum.”
For the safety of pets and people, the Commonwealth of Virginia requires all cats and dogs over the age of four months to be regularly vaccinated against rabies. Rabies is most frequently seen in wildlife, but can be transmitted to domestic pets through wildlife encounters. Rabies is potentially contagious to pets and humans, and, when left untreated, the virus is almost always fatal. However, high rates of vaccination have led to a decline in the disease nationwide. Dogs and cats should be vaccinated against rabies, at a minimum, every three years.
The majority of rabies cases occur in wildlife but when people are exposed to rabies, it is usually the result of an encounter with an infected domestic animal. Ensuring all pets, including cats and dogs, are kept up-to-date on vaccinations is the best method of prevention to keep people and domestic animals safe.
More information about Loudoun County Animal Services is online at www.loudoun.gov/animals .
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