Local veteraniarians are again offering low-cost rabies clinics to vaccinate against rabies for dogs and cats over three months old.

The low-cost rabies clinics run through November 1, offering residents a convenient, inexpensive means of getting their pets vaccinated against the deadly disease.

This year, 22 veterinary offices have agreed to offer the low-cost service to pet owners.

People who have not had their pet vaccinated are advised to make use of the clinics.

The health unit says it is mandatory for all dogs and cats to be vaccinated for protection against rabies in Simcoe Muskoka. Pet owners who fail to comply risk receiving a fine.

The rabies clinics are just one important part of a broader program to prevent rabies from occurring in Simcoe and Muskoka, the health unit says.  

Thanks to vaccination of pets, baiting of wild raccoons and foxes and public awareness, Ontario now has a lower incidence of rabies, compared to other areas in North America, the health unit says

While health unit staff investigated more than 1,100 animal bite incidents in the region in 2007, only seven wild animals tested positive for rabies.

Last year more than 4,400 dogs and cats were vaccinated against rabies through the clinics.

As well as the mandatory rabies vaccination pet owners can help prevent the spread of rabies by preventing their pets from roaming free and by keeping them indoors at night.

The health unit reminds people stay away from unfamiliar dogs and cats as well as all wildlife, including bats.

People bitten by an animal should immediately wash the wound well with soap and water and see their health care provider or go to the hospital, the health unit says.

All animal bites must be reported to the health unit. If a pet has come into contact with a suspected rabid animal people should immediately report the incident to the Canadian Food Inspection Agency.

For more information on clinic times and dates visit the health unit website, or call Your Health Connection at 705-721-7520 or 1-877-721-7520 Monday to Friday 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.