Annual rabies clinic vaccinates record number of dogs and cats on Hopi Reservation
Team travels to 20 locations to vaccinate 520 animals
HOPI RESERVATION, Ariz. - The annual rabies vaccination clinic took place July 17-19 at 20 locations across the Hopi Reservation where approximately 520 dogs and cats were vaccinated for rabies virus. This increase is two-and-a-half times higher than the number of animals vaccinated in previous years and we thank all the pet owners who were patient with us as we dealt with unexpected turnout.
The vaccination team may have taken a blood sample from your dog that week, and those results are pending. This study was done to evaluate the presence and general location of Rocky Mountain spotted fever (RMSF) on the Hopi Reservation. Indian Health Services (HIS) plan to share what they learned from the study with the community. However, HIS officials wish to remind dog owners that they did not link any blood sample with a particular dog and its owner, so they will not be able to give specific results for an individual dog. The type of test done on the blood samples does not show if a dog is currently sick; it only shows if the dog has been exposed to RMSF in the past, and there is no risk to the dog or action that needs to be taken if a dog's blood test does show past exposure.
The clinic was a collaborative effort by the Indian Health Service's Office of Environmental Health and Engineering, Hopi Veterinary Services, and the Community Health Representatives. Dr. Sherry Burrer, a veterinarian with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and Pam Lalo, veterinary technician, Hopi Veterinary Services, administered the vaccine.
If you have any questions regarding rabies virus please contact the Office of Environmental Health and Engineering at (928) 737-6281.
SUBMIT FEEDBACK
Click Below to: