The rabid kitten alert issued in Bensonhurst last week reminded everyone how vital it is to be sure pets are vaccinated.
Fortunately, the city is offering free vaccines — including the rabies inoculation — for dogs and cats on Sept. 14 at the Salt Marsh Nature Center in Marine Park.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, recommends that unvaccinated dogs and cats that are exposed to rabid animals be euthanized immediately, so owners should be sure to get the family pets vaccinated.
And even if your pet has received a rabies shot already, it may be out of date. The rabies inoculation lasts only three years, so boosters are required throughout a pet’s life.
To receive a vaccine, animals must be healthy and must not be allergic to any of the inoculations.
In addition to the rabies vaccine, dog vaccines include distemper, adenovirus-2, parainfluenza, and parvovirus. Cats vaccines include viral rhinotracheitis, calicivirus, and panleukopenia.
Pet vaccines at the Salt Marsh Nature Center (3301 Avenue U, between East 33rd and 34th streets). Sept. 14 at 10 am. Free.
