Water Witch Fire Company Hosts Rabies Clinic

Pet owners can ensure their animals are up-to-date on their rabies vaccinations during a $7 clinic in Port Deposit.

On May 4, the Cecil County Health Department welcomes cats, dogs and ferrets that are at least 12 weeks old to a clinic at the Water Witch Fire Company.

Maryland law requires that all cats and dogs are vaccinated against rabies.

In 2012, a feral cat in Port Deposit was infected, and five people were treated for rabies as a result, the Cecil Whig reported. Also in 2012, one Marylander died from rabies, in the state's first fatality from the illness since 1976, according to The Washington Post.

On May 4, pet owners can save themselves, their pets and others from the risk of contracting the infection, which is transmitted by saliva and can cause death.

Saturday's clinic at Water Witch Fire Company in Port Deposit offers separate times for cats and is open to dogs and ferrets as well.

• From 9 to noon on Saturday, cats can get vaccinations.
• From 10 a.m. to noon on Saturday, dogs, cats and ferrets can get vaccinated.

Cats must be in carriers, and dogs must be on leashes. The vaccinations cost $7 per pet, and the health department asks that people bring exact change.

In addition to the May 4 rabies clinic in Port Deposit, there will be two other Cecil County rabies clinics, in Elkton, on May 11 and Sept. 28. For more information, call Cecil County Environmental Health at 410-996-5160.