Vet sees triple number of dogs and cats at rabies clinic

North Country dogs and cats were excited, terrified or furious last week to be taken by their owners to the Hogansburg-Akwesasne Volunteer Fire Department for a free rabies vaccination clinic.

The parking lot of the fire hall was swarming with dogs in all shapes and sizes, from Mastiffs to miniatures. A Rottweiller pulled his owner on a leash through the parking lot as they made their way to the long line of dogs and owners.

“It’s his first time on a leash,” the man said.

Jenny the Black Lab sniffed out other dogs excited as always to see new people and pets, but the Beagle in front of her was not so thrilled. He barked ferociously at every living thing that went past him.

Cats were kept safely inside carriers hissing and standing with their hair up if a dog came too close. The dog would react by barking as he or she realized what was inside the carrier.

It was chaotic scene but despite the frenzy nearly 200 dogs and cats received a valuable vaccine they might not receive if it weren’t for the free clinics. Although the shots themselves might not be very expensive at a veterinarian’s office, pet owners are usually required to pay an additional visit fee. Additionally some pet owners might have trouble scheduling a vet visit during the day and appointments are usually needed.

The clinics are a free and convenient alternative and they are held about once a year in Akwesasne. Franklin County Public Health hosts the clinics and provides the free vaccine. A nearby veterinarian, Dr. Peter Neveu, administered the shots with several other community members helping out.

Despite all the stress and excitement leading up to their turn for the shot, dogs were hardly effected by the shot itself and most didn’t even notice it.

A total of 117 dogs and 47 cats were vaccinated.

“The rabies clinic was very successful,” said Derek Comins, Animal Control Officer for the St. Regis Mohawk Tribe. “The vet said we saw three times more animals than they usually get for a free clinic.”

There are plans now for a second free rabies vaccine this June and possibly another in September.