For many, our pets are valued members of our families and we want to protect them. For that reason the Town of Hempstead offers rabies inoculations at its annual Adopt-A-Pet and Rabies Shot Program. The event will take place on Saturday, Oct. 4,

Rabies vaccinations are extremely important. Rabid animals can transmit rabies to other animals and to people. It is vitally important that we help to protect the health and safety of all our residents by vaccinating pets. In Nassau County it is mandatory for dogs to be inoculated against rabies and it is strongly suggested that cats be protected as well.

For a nominal $10 fee, a healthy dog or cat can be vaccinated at the Adopt-A-Pet and Rabies Shot Program. The proceeds from this event are shared by the Town of Hempstead Animal Shelter and the Long Island Veterinary Medical Association. By supporting these important animal advocates, you will be helping to ensure healthy pets.

There is a limit of three pets per household and pregnant pets cannot be vaccinated. For the safety of all participants we ask that cats be brought in carriers and that dogs be leashed.

It is important for pet owners to be aware that a rabies vaccination is just the beginning of proper pet health care. A yearly visit to the veterinarian for a complete physical examination can go a long way toward assuring the continued health of your pet.

Licensing your pet is a good idea. For dogs, licensing is the law. In order to have your pet vaccinated at the rabies program, you must bring the current license. Otherwise, the purchase of a new license will be required. Representatives from the Town Clerk's Office will be on hand to issue new licenses. The cost of a license for a non-neutered male or non-spayed female dog is $10.50. The cost of a license for a neutered male or spayed female is $2.50. Only residents of the unincorporated areas within the Town of Hempstead may obtain licenses at the rabies program. If you have any questions about licensing your dog, you can contact the Hempstead Town Clerk's Office at 489-5000 ext. 3033.

In addition to vaccinations, the event will feature many shelter animals in need of a good home and the goal of the program is to match loving animals with caring owners. To view some of the animals that are available for adoption use the Petfinder link on Hempstead Town's website, www.TOH.LI.

The Rabies and Adopt-a-Pet Program is being held on Saturday, Oct. 4 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Town of Hempstead Animal Shelter, 3320 Beltagh Avenue, Wantagh. An appointment is required, so please call the animal shelter at 785-5220 to pre-register your pet.

I hope residents who own a dog or cat will take advantage of this affordable opportunity that will help protect your pet.