Rabies Clinics
The Humane Society of Schuyler County collaborates with the Schuyler County Public Health Department to offer free rabies clinics to Schuyler County residents. These clinics are held approximately six times per year at various locations around the county including two at the Humane Society facility in Montour Falls.
State law requires owners to have current rabies certificates for their cats and dogs. The first vaccination is valid for one year, and subsequent vaccinations are valid for three years. Rabies is almost always fatal to humans and animals and rabid wildlife is present in the county. It is therefore very important to have your pet vaccinated to prevent a premature death if they come in contact with a rabid animal. If your pet scratches or bites someone and does not have a certificate, they may be held at the shelter by Schuyler County for a quarantine period. If the animal’s owner cannot be identified, then the animal is usually euthanized and sent for autopsy to determine if it might have been rabid.
How to Access the Clinic
Clinic dates are posted on the [Humane Society Events Calendar] as well as the Schuyler County events calendar. Bring your dog on a leash and your cat in a plastic cat carrier. If your dog has any social issues, please leave them in the car and make arrangements with the staff for the vaccination.
If your pet already has a valid rabies certificate, be sure to bring it along so your new certificate can be issued for three years rather than one.
At the Clinic
You and your pet will be checked in and then see our volunteer veterinarian or veterinary assistant. Your pet will be given a quick checkup to make sure they are healthy enough for the vaccination. Once the vaccination is given, you are on your way and we will see you when the next vaccination is due.
There is no charge for rabies clinics, but donations to help defer the cost of the vaccines and maintenance of the facility is greatly appreciated.