Prepare Pets for Hurricane Season
P.A.W.S. Lee County will hold a Hurricane Preparedness Pet Clinic on Saturday, June 6, 2009 from 10 to 3 p.m. at 13410 N. Cleveland Ave., Fort Myers.
As Southwest Florida’s greatest threats from hurricanes occur between August and October, now is the time for pet owners to ensure their pets are protected.
At the clinic pets will receive an annual cat (FVRCP) or dog (DHLPP+C) booster, rabies vaccine, and microchip ID for $25 plus the cost of the pet license.
Important Things to Remember About the Clinic
> Cash or check will be the only accepted methods of payment.
> Pets must be leashed or confined in a carrier.
> Lee County Ordinance requires all dogs and cats four months or older to be licensed. Therefore, a license must be purchased at the time the pet is vaccinated for rabies.
License fees are as follows:
> One-year license for puppies and kittens under one year of age – $8
> One-year license for sterilized pets – $8
> Three-year license for sterilized pets – $15
> One-year license for unsterilized pets – $35
> Three-year license for unsterilized pets – $65
*Only pets whose owners bring prior vaccination records showing vaccination history may receive a three-year vaccine. All other pets will receive a one year vaccine.
* All pets participating in the clinic must receive a microchip ID which is included in the $25 vaccination package unless the pet already has a microchip ID. The microchip, about the size of a grain of rice, is implanted by injection under the pet’s skin. Each microchip has a unique number which will identify the owner. Unlike tags they cannot be lost or removed.
Although pets should always be kept up-to-date on vaccinations and always have identification, it is imperative with the threat of hurricane season. Stress makes animals more susceptible to disease, and exposure could greatly increase if pets become lost or are sheltered with other animals. If displaced by a storm, pets may be in closer contact with wildlife and therefore face an increased risk of rabies.
For more information about pet hurricane protection, Lee County’s Evacuation Pet Shelter, or microchip identification go to Lee County Domestic Animal Services’ website, www.LeeLostPets.com. For additional information regarding the Hurricane Preparedness Pet Clinic call P.A.W.S. at 652-6722.