Tuesday, April 16, 2024

From the Cambridge Animal Commission, March 7, 2016: State law says all dogs and cats over the age of 6 months must be vaccinated against rabies; some veterinarians will vaccinate at an earlier age. The city is holding a rabies vaccination clinic for dogs from 9 to 11 a.m. April 2. A vaccination will cost $15. (A vaccination clinic for cats has not been planned. If your cat needs to be vaccinated, there are clinics in the area that administer low-cost programs for rabies vaccinations.)

Microchipping will be available at the clinic for $20 per dog, and dog licenses for April 1 to March 31, 2017, will be available at the clinic. Owners are still welcome to attend if their dog is up to date on its rabies vaccination and they just need a license. Bring a current rabies vaccination certificate and proof of spay or neuter if the dog has not been licensed in Cambridge before.

The clinic will be held at the city’s Department of Public Works, 147 Hampshire St., in the Wellington-Harrington neighborhood.

For pets’ safety, dogs must be leashed at the clinic at all times.

The Cambridge Animal Commission offers the following general tips and reminders: Controlling dogs at all times is another excellent way to keep them protected. When you are outside with your dog, obey the leash law. When you are in shared use areas in the city, always have your dog under control and within your sight (particularly at Fresh Pond). Furthermore, these are fundamental elements of the regulations that are posted at the shared use areas and also at the designated dog parks in the city. Dog owners are reminded of the three L’s of dog ownership – “License, Leash and Love your pet.” Also be a good neighbor and scoop the poop! Keep your neighborhood clean and everyone will benefit.

Cat owners should keep their cats indoors; it’s a safe and controlled environment.

For information, call the Cambridge Animal Commission Office at (617) 349-4376.