Communications
Cats, dogs, and ferrets were all welcome at the S’Klallum Tribal Center last month as WSDA veterinarians participated in a free rabies vaccine clinic for pets, an event they hope to continue and expand.
It was the second year for the event, held Aug. 23 and 24, which WSDA veterinarian Dr. Minden Buswell said held particular significance for some of the pets.
“Rabies vaccines require a booster shot one year after the initial shot, and every three years after that, so it was great to be able to provide boosters to pets who were here last time,” she said.
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| Dr. Thomas Brignole and Dr. Brooke Lucas, USDA veterinarians. |
The clinic was organized by the Washington State Department of Health in conjunction with the U.S Department of Agriculture. Dr. Buswell, state veterinarian Dr. Brian Joseph, and Dr. Thomas Gilliom were at the clinic to provide small animal veterinary equipment and perform the vaccinations.
“Rabies vaccines have to be performed by a licensed veterinarian,” Dr. Buswell said.
After providing vaccines, the veterinarians gave pet owners collars and tags with Quick Response (QR) codes, allowing anyone with a cell phone to take a picture and learn that animal is up-to-date on its rabies vaccinations. They also gave reservation police copies of vaccination certification for records purposes.
In total, WSDA and USDA veterinarians vaccinated 86 animals. The event is expected to take place next year as well, and Dr. Buswell said she hopes they’ll be able to expand so more tribes in the area can participate.
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| One of the dogs at the rabies vaccine clinic. |
