For Immediate Release:

September 28, 2015

County offers free rabies clinics

Residents can bring dogs and cats for vaccine

“Protecting your pets by keeping them current on their rabies vaccine is an important buffer between wildlife rabies and human exposure,” said Freeholder John P. Curley, liaison to the MCHD. “Not only does the vaccine keep your pet safe; it can help keep you and your family safe as well.”

Rabies is a deadly disease caused by a virus that is found in the saliva of a rabid animal and is transmitted most commonly by a bite.

“This is a great time to check your pet’s vaccination and health records and make sure they are current,” said Christopher Merkel, Monmouth County’s Public Health Coordinator. 

Dogs and cats who receive an initial rabies vaccination are not considered immunized until 28 days after the vaccine has been administered, therefore it is strongly recommended that any animal newly vaccinated or those too young to receive the vaccine (less than three months) not be left outdoors unattended.

“It is important to remember that cats and dogs, as well as indoor animals, should be vaccinated for rabies,” said Merkel. “According to the latest published data by the CDC, cats continue to be the number one domestic animal confirmed with rabies: nationally, 247 cats confirmed in 2013 compared to 89 dogs.”

No appointments are necessary, but vaccines are given on a first-come, first-served basis. For more information, call the County Health Department at 732-431-7456.

2015/2016 Monmouth County Health Dept. Rabies Clinic Schedule

2016

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