Two rabies cases confirmed in Columbia County - NEWS10 ABC: Albany, New York News, Weather, Sports

Two rabies cases confirmed in Columbia County

COLUMBIA COUNTY - The Columbia County Department of Health has confirmed two positive cases of rabid animals in the county.

They say a positive cat was found in the area of Electric Park Drive in Niverville, located in the town of Kinderhook, requiring one post exposure treatment. Also a skunk was rabid from the town of Gallatin. The skunk had bitten a pet goat. The goat has not been vaccinated for rabies, therefore will result in a strict 6 month quarantine or euthanasia.

Residents should be mindful when letting pets outside and ensure their pets are currently vaccinated for rabies. Also with the nice weather, children will be playing outside and parents should advise their kids not to pet stray or wild animals.

The Columbia County Health Department sponsors seven free clinics to have your dogs, cats and ferrets vaccinated for rabies. The first clinic is this Saturday, March 24th located at the Ancram Town Highway Garage. Cats and Ferrets from 10am-11am, dogs 11am-Noon. These clinics are free for Columbia County residents only.

Other clinic dates can be found by checking with your town clerk, visiting the Columbia County web site at http://www.columbiacountyny.com/ or by calling the health department at (518) 828-3358.

The county asks for residents to please report suspicious animal behavior to the local animal control officer or the Columbia County Department of Health.