Free Rabies Vaccination Clinic Coming To Morristown

MORRISTOWN, NJ — Morristown pet owners will have an opportunity to get their dogs and cats vaccinated against rabies for free later this month.

The Town of Morristown will host a free rabies vaccination clinic on Sept. 19, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the lobby of Town Hall, located at 200 South Street. Walk-ins are welcome, and pre-registration is not required.

Both one-year and three-year rabies vaccines will be available for dogs and cats older than four months.

Pet owners seeking a three-year vaccine must bring a copy of their animal's previous vaccination record. Without documentation, the animal will receive a one-year vaccine, according to the town.

Dogs must be kept on a leash, cats must be in carriers, and an adult must accompany each animal.

Pet licensing will also be available for Morristown residents during the clinic. Only checks or money orders payable to the Town of Morristown will be accepted for licenses.

Morristown's Health Division oversees animal control and dog and cat licensing services in the town. Anyone with additional questions about the clinic can contact Morristown Animal Control at 973-292-6731.

Rabies is a contagious and deadly disease that can affect nearly all mammals. The disease is spread through bites, scratches, or any exposure to an open wound.

Common signs of rabies include staggering, restlessness, aggression, choking, or a change in the tone of their barks or growls. Some animals may show radical behavioral changes, like nocturnal animals coming out during the day, for example.

If you or your pet is bitten or scratched by a potentially rabid animal, the wound should be cleaned immediately, and you should seek medical attention ASAP, regardless of vaccination status. If not treated promptly, rabies can be fatal.