Low-cost rabies clinic in Southbury Sunday, June 2

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The Pomperaug District Department of Health, Southbury Animal Control and Southbury Veterinary Hospital are providing a low-cost rabies clinic for dogs and cats Sunday, June 2, from 1 to 3 p.m. at the Southbury Town Garage on Peter Road. The cost is $15 CASH ONLY per animal. There are no residency requirements.

Dogs must be on a leash and cats must be in carriers. Cats on leashes will not be accepted. Collar tags and certificates will be provided as required by law. Dr. Joseph Ross of Southbury Veterinary Hospital is donating his services and the vaccine for this event. All proceeds will be donated to local charities.

Connecticut law requires that all dogs and cats 3 months of age or older be vaccinated against rabies. Written proof of prior vaccination for rabies must be presented to qualify for a three-year certificate. Tags are not acceptable proof. A one-year certificate will be given to all others. This is in compliance with the directive of the state veterinarian. State law requires that all pets vaccinated for the first time in 2018 must be re-vaccinated within 1 year. Check your pets’ rabies vaccination certificate for the expiration date.

The Southbury Animal Control Officer advises that if people have pets that are due for their rabies shots soon after this clinic, to come to the clinic anyway. It is safe for animals to receive the shot a little earlier than scheduled; and by getting the booster a little early, it will ensure that the rabies vaccine does not lapse in case the owner forgets to schedule an appointment. Also, the clinic offers the vaccine at a very low cost.

June is dog-licensing month. The Southbury Town Clerk will be at the clinic to issue dog licenses to Southbury residents. A copy of the current rabies vaccination is required. Licenses for a new dog that has not been licensed in the prior year also require a copy of the spayed/neutered certificate from the vet, if applicable.