Tails wagged, dogs barked and yelped and cats purred Sunday at the third annual Free Rabies Clinic held at the New Rochelle Humane Society.
The clinic was opened to dogs, cats and ferrets owned by Westchester County residents and was held outside the Humane Society's entrance. The event was sponsored by the Westchester Department of Health.
The pets were given the opportunity to get vaccinated by veterinarian Dr. Jen Panella and veterinary assistant Amy Eisenberg on a first-come, first-served basis. Low-cost microchipping was also available.
Panella said the vaccine is good for three years, if the pet is old enough and has been previously vaccinated.
“Dogs and cats that are 3 months or older are eligible to get the shot,” she said, adding the vaccine would only last one year if the animal has not been vaccinated before.
The HomeAgain microchipping was offered at $30 for the day. It is usually priced at $45. The rice-grained-size microchip goes under the skin and in between the shoulder blades of a dog or cat for life.
The Humane Society’s events coordinator Beverly Press expressed that she has both her cats microchipped. She believes that microchipping one’s pet is beneficial.
“I think it’s a great way to reconnect the pet with its owner,” she said.
The event resulted in 116 pets getting rabies shots. A total of 17 animals were microchipped. Many pet owners left with smiles on their faces.
Yonkers resident Leberta Deyglio knew about the event because of emails she received due to being a former volunteer. Her Yorkie Maggie got microchipped.
“I’m afraid someone will take her. Better safe than sorry,” Deyglio said.
Tracy Liberatore from Yonkers had the Humane Society’s Web site forwarded to her by a friend. She chose to get her dog Toby microchipped and shared the same concern as Deyglio.
“I’m afraid of losing him,” she said.
