McHenry County Animal Control To Hold Drive-Through Microchipping, Rabies Clinics

Press release from the McHenry County Government:

The McHenry County Animal Control has scheduled two drive-thru microchipping and rabies clinics for cats and dogs in August.

Illinois law now requires cats to be vaccinated against rabies. Pet registration is required by law in McHenry County and tags must be purchased at the time of vaccination. The cost for a rabies vaccination is $15 for one year and $30 for three years. Registration fees are additional and vary depending on factors such as if your pet is spayed or neutered. Microchipping a pet is $10.

Pet owners must call ahead to schedule their visit for either August 25 between 11:30 a.m and 2:30 p.m. or August 27 between 1 p.m. and 4 p.m. and must show up at their scheduled time to prevent unsafe conditions at the clinic. Social distancing measures will be in place during both clinics.

Spots are limited but additional dates could be added if this event indicates there is a need.

This event is only available for McHenry County residents, and pets must be leashed or in a carrier. Please do not bring animals that are in heat. Information about bite history or dogs that are easily stressed will be requested when making an appointment.

Vaccinating pets is beneficial to both owners and their animals. More than 59,000 people worldwide die from rabies each year, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). There is no cure for rabies and it is almost always fatal. Rabies vaccinations provide your pet with the best protection against this disease.

Microchipping increases the odds of reuniting with lost or stolen pets. Only 22% of lost dogs that entered animal shelters were reunited with their families, according to a recent study from Petfinder.com. However, the return-to-owner rate for microchipped dogs was over 52%. Less than 2% of lost cats (in shelters) were reunited with their families. The return-to-owner rate for microchipped cats was dramatically higher, at over 38%.

To keep your pets up to date, call 815-459-6222 to reserve a spot at McHenry County Animal Control and Adoption Center, 100 N. Virginia Road in Crystal Lake, or visit MCDH.info for additional information.

This press release was produced by the McHenry County Government City. The views expressed here are the author’s own.