Clermont County Public Health is partnering with Dr. Gwendolyn Steffen from Henehan Animal Hospital in Milford and Clermont to the Rescue Humane Society to offer a low-cost rabies vaccination clinic.

The clinic will take place on Saturday Jan. 30 from 2–5 p.m. at Live Oaks Campus located at 5956 Buckwheat Road, Milford, OH 45150.

“Only about 45 percent of dogs and less than 20 percent of cats in Clermont County are current on their rabies shots,” said Rob Perry, director of the environmental health division with Clermont County Public Health. “We hope to increase that number with this clinic, where pet owners can vaccinate their pets at a cost of only $5 (cash),” said Perry.

In order to receive a shot animals must be in good health and must be leashed or in a carrier. A three year vaccination can be obtained with documentation of vaccination status. Without documentation, an animal will receive a one year vaccination. In addition to the vaccinations, Clermont to the Rescue Animal Shelter will be selling 2016 dog licenses, for $16.75 (cash or check only).

“While cases of rabies in humans and domestic animals are rare in Ohio and the U.S., the virus is present in the local wildlife population. In 2015, 20 bats and six raccoons tested positive for rabies in Ohio,” said Perry.

“We receive on average 300 animal bite reports annually. Each of those must be investigated, which involves quarantining or testing the animal that caused the bite. Keeping your pet vaccinated is vital in protecting you and your pet from this deadly disease,” said Perry. For more information about the rabies vaccination clinic, call Clermont County Public Health at 513-732-7499.