Keep Pets Safe With Free Rabies Shots

The Rockland County Department of Health is offering free rabies shots for cats, dogs and ferrets on Sunday, July 14 from 10 a.m. until 1 p.m. at the Rockland County Fire Training Center at 35 Firemen's Memorial Drive in Pomona.  No appointments needed and the shots are free, however a $5 donation per animal will help defray vaccination costs. Animal rabies is present in Rockland and pets are at risk if they come into contact with a rabid animal.

“Animal rabies continues to be a serious public health problem in Rockland County,” said Dr. Patricia S. Ruppert, Rockland County Commissioner of Health. “We remind all residents to make sure that their animals are immunized against rabies and that the vaccinations are kept up to date.”

To get a free rabies shot: 

·      The dog, cat or ferret must be healthy

·      The pet must be older than three months

·      Dogs must be on a leash

·      Cats and ferrets must be on a leash or in a top-opening container

New York State law requires all dogs, cats and domesticated ferrets be vaccinated against rabies by four months of age.  Owners can be fined up to $250 if they fail to get their pets vaccinated and keep them up to date. 

If an unvaccinated pet, or one that is overdue on its vaccination, comes in contact with a rabid or suspected rabid animal, the pet must either be destroyed or strictly quarantined for six months.  Vaccinated animals that come in contact with wild animals can be given booster vaccinations, but these shots must be given within five days of exposure.

For more information on animal rabies or the vaccine contact the health department  at 845-364-2594.