Measles Advisory
November 1, 2018
Lung Cancer Awareness Month
November 14, 2018
HEALTH DEPARTMENT REMINDS RESIDENTS TO VACCINATE THEIR PETS AND KEEP THEM SAFE FROM DISTEMPER, RABIES & OTHER HARMFUL DISEASES
The Ocean County Health Department (OCHD) wants to remind residents that vaccinating their precious furry friends can save their pets lives from many deadly diseases such as canine distemper and rabies. “We have recently seen an increase in canine distemper cases in raccoons here in Ocean County so now is a good time to urge all cat and dog owners to vaccinate their pets with age appropriate vaccines as recommended by their veterinarian, said Ocean County Freeholder Director Gerry P. Little, Liaison to the Ocean County Board of Health.
Pet vaccines exist to prevent your pet from falling ill. They provide immunity from a range of infectious diseases that can affect both humans and animals. Daniel Regenye, OCHD Public Health Coordinator reminds us, “Living in Ocean County, many of us share our surroundings with wildlife. Sometimes animals such as raccoons, skunks and opossum may have an unexpected encounter with a family pet so it’s best to be protected from any of the diseases those animals may potentially be carrying. And you can never forget that rabies can be passed on from animals to humans so keeping vaccinations up-to-date is crucial in maintaining not only your pets health, but your own.”
Tips to keep your pets safe from wildlife:
Keep your dogs on a leash while on walks or at the park
Keep your cats indoors
Do not catch or remove wildlife form their homes
Don’t feed wildlife on your property and don’t feed your pets outside
Keep garbage can lids secure
Enjoy wildlife from a distance
Regenye added, “Pet owners should schedule annual wellness appointments with their veterinarian to discuss their health and vaccination schedule. However, if you suspect your cat or dog had contact with a sick animal you should call your veterinarian right away.”
If you have any questions regarding vaccinations please call the Ocean County Animal Facilities at 732-657-8086 or 609-978-0127 or your veterinarian. You can also visit the Health Department’s website at www.ochd.org or follow the Health Department on Twitter@OCpublichealth or like us on Facebook.
