May 15, 2017                                                                                                                                             

Low-Cost Rabies Vaccination at Baker Community Center on May 18, 2017                                                             

Contact: Ryan Mims
HealthyOkaloosaPIO@flhealth.gov(850) 833-9240 ext. 2162
Cell: (850) 420-2198  

 

WHO: Florida Department of Health in Okaloosa County (DOH-Okaloosa) and Panhandle Animal Welfare Society (PAWS)
 
WHAT: DOH-Okaloosa and PAWS are partnering to offer $5 rabies vaccinations and $10 microchips to the public.
 
WHERE: Baker Community Center
5503 Highway 4
Baker, Florida 32531
 
WHEN: May 18, 2017; 1-4 p.m.
WHY: Rabies is a deadly viral disease that can be prevented but not cured. The virus attacks the brain of warm-blooded animals, including people. Even if you consider your dog, cat, or ferret to be an indoor pet, it is important that your pet receive a rabies vaccination.

In 2016, DOH-Okaloosa investigated 1,033 domestic animal (dogs or cats) bites or scratches to other domestic animals or humans. Of those animals investigated, only approximately 50% were current on their rabies vaccination. 
 
The only acceptable proof of vaccination for an animal bite investigation is documentation of the vaccination from a licensed veterinarian. This is a community effort to bring pet owners into compliance with the law, while providing protection against a deadly disease that continues to cause public health concerns.
 
For more information on this rabies vaccination event, visit www.HealthyOkaloosa.com or call (850) 689-7859.

About the Florida Department of Health

The department works to protect, promote and improve the health of all people in Florida through integrated state, county and community efforts.

 

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