Newtown Pets Find Protection

At Rabies Vaccine Clinic

By Kaaren Valenta

A line of dogs, cats — in carriers — and their owners wound its way through the gymnasium at Edmond Town Hall on Saturday, June 5, for the annual rabies clinic. Dog owners were able to not only get vaccinations for their pets, but also get their annual dog licenses.

During the two-hour program, veterinarians Brian Silverlieb from the Mt Pleasant Hospital for Animals and Barbara Mangold from Newtown Animal Clinic gave rabies shots to about 134 dogs and cats, according to Town Clerk Cynthia Simon.

The town clerk’s office issued 64 dog licenses at the program. The state requires that dog owners show proof that their dogs have been vaccinated against rabies to obtain dog licenses.

The town clerk’s office, in cooperation with the Connecticut Veterinary Medical Association, sponsored the low-cost rabies vaccination clinic.

The June 5 session was the 19th annual rabies clinic held in Newtown. Members of the Newtown Woman’s Club helped conduct the clinic.

The number of rabies shots given fluctuates each year. Last year 118 rabies shots were given at the clinic; 182 were given in 2001.

“This year we vaccinated 88 dogs and 46 cats. Last year the numbers were practically reversed. I haven’t got a clue why this happens,” Ms Simon said.

Dogs six months of age and older must be licensed annually during the month of June. The new licenses are available at the town clerk’s office at Edmond Town Hall, 45 Main Street. The office is open Mondays through Fridays, from 8 am to 4:30 pm. For more information on dog licensing, call the Town Clerk’s office at 270-4210.