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From staff reports
The Cook County Department of Animal and Rabies Control is running its annual Partners in Prevention clinics now through mid-October. ARC is partnering with local animal organizations to offer reduced-cost or free one-year rabies vaccinations, as well as microchips.
The partnerships are designed to link pet owners to organizations in their area for year-round pet care.
Eighteenth Ward Ald. Derrick G. Curtis hosts a popular pet vaccination event each year, and in years past led by example by bringing his dog, Sasha, who enjoyed the attention. –File photo
More than 40 clinics are currently scheduled on weekends throughout the coming months. There will not be one on the Southwest Side until Saturday, June 1, according to the current ARC schedule. A link to the schedule is here.
The June 1 visit is part of the Midway Chamber of Commerce’s annual pet parade at Wentworth Park, 57th and Narragansett.
Clinics are available to dogs and cats owned by Cook County residents. Pet owners must bring proof of residency (driver’s license or state ID) to on of the clinics.
ARC used data from Cook County’s Social Vulnerability Index to help determine some of this year’s clinic locations. In a statement, County officials said the SVI “provides a comprehensive analysis, ranking community attributes including socioeconomic status, demographic factors, language proficiency, housing conditions and transportation availability. This data-driven approach ensures that clinics are positioned to serve communities where they are most needed, aligning with Cook County’s mission to deliver equitable healthcare services.”
“Protecting our pets against a preventable but potentially deadly virus is essential,” Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle said. “I am grateful to the County’s partners for coming together to ensure our pet population receives these vital vaccines.”
ARC reminds residents that rabies is always fatal to unvaccinated pets and is a preventable virus that causes inflammation of the brain in mammals. Rabies vaccinations are required by law.
“Providing free or low-cost access to rabies vaccines is one way the County limits transmission,” said ARC Administrator Mamadou Diakhate. “Last year, we administered more than 6,000 rabies vaccines and over 3,600 microchips to County pets. This critical program offers an affordable way to keep pets healthy and safe.”
ARC is partnering with the following organizations to host rabies vaccine and microchip clinics for cats and dogs:
• Animal Care League
• Chicago Animal Care and Control
• Chicago Wolves
• Evanston Animal Shelter
• Heartland Animal Shelter
• Paw Salvation
• South Suburban Humane Society
• The Anti-Cruelty Society
• Tree House Humane Society
Some clinics are available to dogs only. Pet owners are advised to check with the mobile clinic sponsor for details.
Microchips are administered at no charge at all clinics, and there is no registration fee. For more information about the microchips used, visit avidid.com.