Blyth Veterinary Services, in partnership with Huron Perth Public Health, is offering three low-cost rabies vaccination clinics. The clinics will be held at Blyth Veterinary Services, located at 234 Queen St. S., Blyth, on Friday, August 16, from 1–4 pm, and Saturday, August 17, from 9 am–12 pm. Another clinic will take place at St. Helen’s Community Hall, 85656 St. Helen’s Line, on Wednesday, September 4, from 1–4 pm. No appointments are needed, and the cost is $30 per animal, payable in cash.
These clinics aim to vaccinate as many pets as possible for owners who may not regularly visit a vet due to financial constraints. The clinics have been held annually after rabies was detected in a local farm animal years ago.
Rabies is a deadly disease for humans, though human cases in Canada are rare. Vaccinating pets reduces the risk of transmission to humans and other animals. Rabies is still common in Ontario’s wildlife, particularly in bats, raccoons, foxes, and skunks, according to Patrick Landry, a Public Health Inspector with Huron Perth Public Health.
In Ontario, all domestic dogs, cats, and ferrets must be vaccinated against rabies from the age of three months and continuously throughout their lives. Public Health Inspectors check vaccination certificates when pet bites are reported. Rabies vaccination is also required for pets traveling to the United States. Starting August 1, 2024, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has updated the entry requirements for dogs, including mandatory microchipping. This year, Blyth Veterinary Services will offer low-cost microchipping during the rabies clinics.
Written by: K. Milhomens