Pam Dudding
Contributing writer
Pets have always seemed to have a positive effect on people and sometimes even become a “member of the family.”
For this reason, it is important to keep them up to date on the rabies shot.
Also, over the last few years, there has been an increase in wild coyotes and rabid animals that have infiltrated the county’s properties.
Only a couple weeks ago, it was known that coyotes killed a German shepherd on Bradshaw Road.
Therefore, the Craig County Rescue Squad announced it will be hosting a rabies clinic. “We will be hosting our annual rabies clinic at the Craig County Fairgrounds on Saturday, February 18 from 10am until noon,” First Lieutenant Trace Bellassai shared. “This shot is only $15 and will be administered by our Veterinarian Dr. Marge Lewter.”
“Dogs and cats over three months of age can be vaccinated,” Lewter shared.
She noted that she uses a 3-year vaccination that is thimerosal free.
“Rabies vaccine is one of the safest and most effective vaccinations you can get for your animal,” she added. “The first time the pet is vaccinated, it is recommended to get a booster one year later, and then the shots are good for three years.”
Pet owners may wish to note that a current rabies vaccination is required to get a dog license in Craig County, which are still only $8 each.
Those to go to the Fairgrounds will be given a form to complete which will ask the name of the owner of the pet and contact phone number, the species, breed, color and weight of the pet and whether it has been neutered or had previous rabies shots.
Those to go to the clinic are encouraged to bring old rabies certificates, as they are very helpful in getting the information correct.
Lewter noted, “There have been several rabid wild animals in Craig this year so having your pet vaccinated protects them from contracting the deadly virus.”
She explained that normally a house call or office visit with a check-up and a rabies vaccination would cost close to $100 but at the rabies clinic, shots are offered without an examination for only $15 “because this is a public health issue.”
Please note that they can only accept cash or check.
Lewter also stressed, “Do understand that the vaccine requires the immune system to produce protective antibodies, so vaccines are only indicated for healthy animals.”
Upon arrival at the Fairgrounds, those who go to the clinic will be directed as to which gate to enter.
It is a “drive-thru” plan, therefore participants will stay in their vehicles and someone will provide the paperwork to complete while they are waiting and payment is taken.
Also, dogs must be leashed, and cats must be in a carrier during this process.
When arriving at the area where the pets will receive their shot, instructions will be given on how they have successfully completed the drive-thru rabies shot process.
Last year they vaccinated over 100 animals within the two-hour time slot.
For more information, reach out to Dr. Marjorie Lewter, Holistic Veterinary Consultants, at www.holisticveterinaryconsultants.com or [email protected] or call the Craig County Rescue Squad at (540) 864-5115.
Lewter added, “Take time to thank your local volunteer rescue squad members who will be assisting with the rabies clinic as the proceeds from your $15 per pet donation go to benefit the Craig County Volunteer Rescue Squad.”
