April 5 - 11, 2010

BINGHAMTON, NY – The National Public Health Association has identified April 5^th -11^th as National Public Health Week. Public health entities around the nation are acknowledging the importance of public health efforts which serve to prevent disease, prolong life and promote healthy choices. The Broome County Health Department is encouraging the community to recognize efforts dedicated to community health and wellness during National Public Health Week.

• Keep rabies vaccinations up-to-date for all dogs, cats and ferrets. 
• Avoid contact with any wild animal. Be especially suspicious of wild animals that are unusually tame or aggressive. Do not attract raccoons to your yard by feeding them. Tightly cap garbage cans and do not feed pets outside.
• Avoid contact with any stray pets, especially cats.
• Do not handle pets with bare hands for several hours after any involvement with a suspected rabid wild animal. Pet owners should keep a pair of thick gloves handy for just such situations. Always wash your hands afterwards.
• Avoid contact with the saliva of any animal, including pets, that may be rabid or that may have been exposed to rabies.
• Seek advice regarding bat roosts in homes. 

• Animals receiving their first vaccination must be at least 3 months old.
• A $5 donation per animal is requested to help cover the cost of the clinic, but is not required. All pets will be vaccinated regardless of ability to donate.
• If your pet has had a previous rabies vaccination, bring the certificate with you so that your pet may receive a three year vaccination. Without the certificate, your pet will receive a one-year vaccination.
• Pets must be on a leash or in a crate while at the clinic.