Rabies vaccine clinic is set for this Saturday

Columbia County officials scheduled the second low-cost rabies vaccination clinic in Harlem this weekend.

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The first quarterly clinic, held in May, was a success with about 180 pets receiving vaccines, said Linda Fulmer, Columbia County Animal Care and Control manager.

Residents are invited to bring their dogs and cats to receive a vaccine from 1-3 p.m. Saturday at the Harlem Fire Station No. 2 at 180 N. Louisville St., behind the police station.

"Please make sure dogs are on leashes and cats are in carriers," Fulmer said.

The cost is $2 per animal.

Rabies vaccinations currently are especially important as four raccoons and a coyote recently tested positive for rabies in Columbia County.

Rabies is most often passed through the saliva of wild animals, including raccoons, foxes, bats and coyotes. The viral infection can affect any mammal, which includes humans and common domestic animals.

"Plus, it is state law. Any dog or cat must have a rabies vaccination," Fulmer said. "And only a licensed veterinarian can give these shots."

Dr. Craig Osborn, a veterinarian from Belair West Animal Hospital, has volunteered to administer the 100 vaccines available at the clinic.

For more information, visit www.columbia countyga.gov.