Town Hosts Rabies Vaccination, Adoption Program

Hempstead Town Supervisor Kate Murray is pleased to announce that the town will host its annual Adopt-A-Pet and Rabies Vaccination Program on Saturday, October 13, 2007 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

"The Town of Hempstead is proud to have achieved one of the highest pet adoption rates in the nation," said Murray. "You can give a lovable cat or dog a home by visiting our animal shelter during this wonderful program." Last year, 17 dogs and 31 cats were adopted at the event.

At the Rabies Vaccination Program, the Town of Hempstead has partnered with the Long Island Veterinary Medical Association to vaccinate healthy dogs and cats for a nominal $10 fee (cash only). "Cats and dogs can contract rabies, an extremely serious disease, if they are not vaccinated," said Councilwoman Angie Cullin. "Pets can transmit rabies to other animals and to people, so it is vitally important that we help protect the health and safety of all our residents by vaccinating pets," added Councilman Gary Hudes.

There is a limit of three pets per household and pregnant pets cannot be vaccinated. For the safety of all participants, cats must be brought in carriers and dogs must be leashed.

This vaccination program has always been extremely successful. Last year alone, 272 Town of Hempstead pets were vaccinated.

The Rabies Vaccination Program will be held at the Hempstead Town Animal Shelter located at 3320 Beltagh Avenue in Wantagh. Pets must be pre-registered for the program and all dogs must be licensed. To pre-register your pet for the program, call the animal shelter at 516-785-5220.

Representatives from the Town Clerk's Office will be on hand to issue dog licenses. "Licensing your pet is a good idea," said Town Clerk Mark Bonilla. "Make sure to bring the current license with you to the program. Otherwise, the purchase of a new license will be required."

The cost of a license for a non-neutered male or a non-spayed female dog is $10.50. The cost of a license for a neutered male or spayed female is $2.50. Spay/neuter certificates must be submitted as proof. Only residents of the unincorporated areas within the Town of Hempstead may obtain licenses at the rabies program. If you have any questions about licensing your dog, you can contact the Hempstead Town Clerk's Office at 489-5000 ext. 3033.

The Adopt-A-Pet Program invites visitors to tour the animal shelter and select a loving pet to become a member of the family. All adoption fees are waived during the program, offering a savings of up to $75. The $10.50 State of New York License fee for dogs still applies.

"I encourage all residents who own cats or dogs to take advantage of this affordable program and come to the Adopt-A-Pet and Rabies Vaccination Program," concluded Murray.