Erie County cares about your pets

Submitted by the Office of Michael H. Kooshoian

3rd District Erie County Legislator

As last week marked the official end of the “dog days of summer,” families will be taking their final vacations, enjoying as many beach days as possible, and flocking to the county and state fairs all before pumpkin spice and shorter days take over. This summer has been nothing short of ideal and, after the winter we had, we absolutely deserved every beautiful day.

I usually take this opportunity to talk about how Erie County can help its residents. As the month of August celebrates “Dogust 1^st” – the universal birthday for shelter dogs, National Dog Day, International Cat Day and numerous other days devoted to our four-legged family members, I would like to continue talking about several opportunities and resources available. Having a pet is an extra responsibility, but it also means having a constant companion, a sense of security, loyalty and unconditional love. I will say, our dog, Luigi, is definitely the heart of our home.

Throughout the year, Erie County hosts free rabies clinics for cats, dogs and ferrets. As vaccines can be expensive and a fiscal burden on many, this is a really great opportunity to ensure our pets and family members stay safe and healthy.

A free clinic will be held from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sept. 9 at the Erie County Training and Operations Center in Cheektowaga and again on Sept. 16 at Buffalo Public School No. 84 in the City of Buffalo. The following link can be used to register for an appointment https://www3.erie.gov/envhealth/rabies-vaccination-clinics-pet-health, or you can call 716-961-6800.

Up to three pets will be accepted with each appointment as long as they are at least 3 months of age. A three-year vaccination certificate will be provided with proof of a pet’s previous vaccination, otherwise a one-year certificate will be given.

Erie County would like to ensure that every household has access to this very important and even lifesaving immunization that is mandatory to receive proper licenses.

Other noteworthy programs that can help with the expense of pets within Erie County include the Animal Food Bank of Western New York at 1-833-738-7333; the Pet Emergency Fund at 716-883-8544; and Pete’s Pet Food Pantry, which is both located and services the 14214, 14215 and 14216 ZIP codes in my district. It can be contacted at 716-833-1151.

I hope you, your families and pets enjoy the remainder of these perfect summer days. As always, if you are looking for more information on Erie County and the many assistance programs available, I welcome you to reach out to my district office at 716-832-0493 with any questions or concerns.