Ocean City Animal Hospital, humane society to hold rabies clinic
(Nov. 27, 2009) Rabid animals continue to be found in all areas of Worcester County.
Raccoons are the most frequently identified carrier of rabies in Worcester County, as well as in Maryland, but the deadly viral disease has also been found here this year in foxes and in one opossum. Skunks, bats, cats and groundhogs are also considered rabies suspect and have been found in other years in the county.
Cats with rabies serve as a reminder that the disease is not associated only with wild animals. They are the No. 1 domestic animal species most likely to be unvaccinated and risk exposure to rabid wildlife while outside. The Worcester County Health Department recommends several things pet owners can do to protect their family and animals from exposure to this disease:
n Have dogs, cats (especially outdoor cats), horses and ferrets vaccinated regularly and keep those vaccinations current.
n Do not let pets roam freely; they are more likely to have contact with a rabid wild animal.
n Avoid feeding animals outside. This draws stray and wild animals to your doorstep. If you must feed outdoors, do not leave the food out overnight and clean up any spillage.
Maryland law requires all owners of dogs, cats and ferrets ages 3 months and older to have the pets adequately vaccinated against rabies. Rabies vaccinations must be repeated every one to three years depending on the age of the pet and the type of vaccine used. In order to assist residents in keeping their pets currently vaccinated, the Ocean City Animal Hospital and Worcester County Humane Society will offer a rabies vaccination clinic on Saturday, Dec. 5, from 1-4 p.m. at the veterinary hospital, located at 11843 Ocean Gateway (Route 50) in West Ocean City. Cost is $10 per vaccination (cash only).
If this is not your dog's first rabies vaccination, written proof of the previous vaccination must be provided in order to receive a three-year shot; otherwise, a one-year shot will be given. All cats and ferrets will receive a one-year vaccine.
Dogs must be secured on a leash and under the control of an adult. Cats and ferrets must be in a carrier.
For more information, call Ocean City Animal Hospital at 410-213-1170.
