Local Animal Health Officials Pushing for Vaccination this Spring
Related Story
Animal health officials are urging pet owners to vaccinate pets against rabies.
It's something pet owner, Javier Casas thinks about on a regular basis.
"It is very important not only to keep them safe and keep them in good health, but also safe to the community cause you never know they might turn loose," said Casas.
Right now, Casas has 2 outdoor dogs.
"I have Kilo, he's part pit-bull and boxer, and I also have Precious. I've had her for 3 months now."
What he fears are stray animals in the area harming his pets.
"Yes we have a lot, I live right here on east 2nd street in Weslaco," said Casas.
Michael Cruz, an animal control officer for the city of Weslaco, said strays can be found throughout the valley.
"Just outside of the city limits especially and sometimes they tend to be invasive so we don't want to risk our pets getting rabies," said Cruz.
Cruz said now is the time for pet owners like Casas to vaccinate, "diseases tend to be more active in warmer weather and that's why it's important to be vaccinated for Parvo and of course can't forget the rabies shot."
Cruz said the city works with local pet stores to set up rabies clinics in order to prevent pets like the ones Casas owns from falling victim.
If you own a cat or dog, they need to be vaccinated every year for rabies.
The city plans to hold more rabies clinics every 2 weeks throughout the spring.
News
Radar
7 Days
