Rabies Vaccination Clinics Scheduled Throughout Garrett County

The Garrett County Health Department’s Environmental Health office has announced this spring’s low-cost rabies clinics for the vaccination of dogs, cats, and ferrets at six locations. No other animals will be vaccinated. The Garrett County Health Department will NOT be holding June low-cost rabies clinics this year.

“Garrett County has experienced one case of rabies so far this year, and three last year,” said Bryce Manges, environmental health specialist. “Protect your pets and your family from the threat of this virus by bringing your dogs, cats, and ferrets to the clinic in your area.”

The schedule is as follows:

• Grantsville Elementary School, Monday, May 13, 5-6 p.m.          
• Gorman Fire Department, Tuesday, May 14, 5-6 p.m.
• Friendsville Elementary School, Wednesday, May 15, 5-6 p.m.
• Accident Elementary School, Thursday, May 16, 5-6 p.m.
• Bloomington Fire Department, Friday, May 17, 5-6 p.m.
• Oakland, Garrett County Health Department, Saturday, May 18, 10 a.m. – Noon

The cost of the vaccination is $5 per animal at the clinics. Dogs must be on a leash and under the control of a responsible individual. Cats and ferrets must be brought to the clinic in a cage or a tightly secured box with air holes. If a cage or carrier is not available, the cat must be carried in a pillowcase or suitable cloth sack. Close contact of animals at the clinics increases the risk of bites or scratches. Please be prepared to restrain and control your animals to avoid a potential incident.

The Centers for Control of Disease and Prevention (CDC) describes rabies as a preventable viral disease of mammals that is transmitted through the bite of a rabid animal. The rabies virus infects the central nervous system, ultimately causing disease in the brain and leading to death. Rabies in both humans and pets is preventable by following proper procedures and guidelines.

“Garrett County is very fortunate to have many forms of wildlife,” said Bob Stephens, Garrett County Health Officer, “but, wild mammals – bats, foxes, squirrels, coyotes, skunks, and raccoons are the main carriers of rabies. Parents should teach their kids not to play with or touch wild animals and even unfamiliar cats and dogs. While these animals may look friendly, they could also carry the rabies virus, which untreated could be fatal. People bitten by these animals should seek prompt medical care. Also, please report stray dogs and cats to Garrett County animal control.”

Many species of animals are more active this time of year, increasing the likelihood of crossing paths with people – especially children. Raccoons are the most frequently identified carrier of rabies in Maryland, and since they normally are active only at night, any raccoon seen wandering around in the daytime is highly suspicious for rabies.

Cats with rabies serve as a reminder that the disease is not associated only with wild animals. Rabid cats are a special concern. Last year, cats were the third most common species that tested positive for rabies in Maryland. And, cats are the number one domestic animal species most likely to be unvaccinated and have frequent contact with humans.

“Feral and stray cats tend to be common in the agricultural community in Garrett County,” Manges added. “Farm owners need to be vigilant of feral or unfamiliar cats residing in and around buildings. Attempts should be made to control these feral cat populations by having them removed or vaccinated against rabies.”

“To protect your pets and family, keep pets’ rabies vaccinations up-to-date,” said Manges. “Although Maryland law requires dogs, cats, and ferrets over four months of age to be vaccinated against rabies, they may be adequately vaccinated at three months of age. Dogs and cats need to be revaccinated every three years. Puppies and kittens vaccinated between the ages of three and twelve months, and dogs and cats receiving their first vaccination must be revaccinated 12 months later. Ferrets need to be revaccinated every year.”

County dog and cat licenses will be available at each clinic. License cost is $3 per year for a spayed/neutered animal and $15 for non-spayed/neutered.

“The vaccination of dogs and cats is one of the most critical measures which can be taken by pet owners in protecting their families and themselves from possible exposure to the rabies virus,” Manges said. “Since wildlife rabies continues to be in Garrett County, all pet owners are strongly urged to bring their pets to one of the clinics.”

For more information about rabies or these clinics, call Environmental Health at 301-334-7760.

By Diane Lee, Public Information Officer, Garrett County Health Department