An Important Notice to All Animal Lovers from the Hopkinton Animal Shelter

Rabies A Serious Threat In Hopkinton.

Due to the number of incidents involving rabid animals, the Town of Hopkinton feels it is necessary to educate the public on the importance of vaccinating your pets against the rabies virus.

Any pet involved in an altercation with a wild animal is subject, by Rhode Island State Law, to serve ten days in quarantine. If your pet is vaccinated, quarantine can be done at your home. If your pet is not vaccinated or the vaccination has expired the quarantine must be done at the shelter or a state approved kennel at the cost of the owner.

Many residents feel they are not at risk because their pets are only outside for short periods of time. Rabies vector species, which include bats, skunks, raccoons, foxes and woodchucks do not behave normally when infected by the rabies virus. They will come out during the day and can attack people or animals they would normally run and hide from.

Residents who have strictly indoor pets such as cats may believe there is no risk to them. Although it is rare, there have been incidents where rabies vector species have gotten inside the home. Bats can come down the chimney, skunks and raccoons can come in through open doors, windows or even through pet doors. The best way to ensure your pets safety is to have them vaccinated against the rabies virus.

Although there is a treatment for humans against rabies, there is no treatment for pets. If your pet contracts the rabies virus they will die a horrible, painful death.

In an effort to get all pets vaccinated, the Town of Hopkinton will hold its annual Rabies Clinic on March 21, 2010 at the Hopkinton Highway Department Facility located at 395 Woodville Road. From 10:00 a.m. to 12:00pm. The cost is $12.00 per vaccine ‐ cash only.

You do not need to be a Hopkinton resident to have your pets vaccinated at this clinic. Any questions can be directed to the Hopkinton Animal Shelter at 377‐7785.