Veterinary Association rabies clinic held in Saugus sells out; more scheduled

SAUGUS-A recent rabies clinic became another sign of the times as K9-Control Officer Harold Young said he had people lined up and down the driveway hoping to take advantage of the $10 shots.”The Veterinary Association brought 100 shots,” he said. “I had to turn people away.”Young said in years past the clinics have averaged around 60 people. Last year 68 pet owners showed up, but in other years he said he’s had as few as 45.He credited the large turnout to a combination of a poor economy and the fact that the town had a recent incident with a rabid cat that sent a total of four people to the hospital – Young included.Even before the incident with the cat, Young said he began receiving phone calls asking about the clinic.”People are trying to economize,” he said. “They’re looking for a cheaper place to go and they’re looking to conserve some money.”And at $10 per shot, Young acknowledged the clinic was a good deal. He also said that the little black rabid cat went a long way toward raising awareness. Once word was out about the sick cat, Young said he received several calls, some related some not but he is glad to see people are taking the incident seriously.”I’m always telling people rabies is here and it’s not going away,” he said.Despite the clinic’s success, Young said there won’t be another one this year, but there are other clinics residents can go to if they missed last weeks. Unlike flu clinics, the rabies clinics are not limited to residents.”Melrose is holding one June 6, 72 Tremont Street, $14 per shot from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m.,” he said.Lynn, which had a clinic the same day as Saugus will also hold another clinic later in the summer. Animal Control Officer Kevin Farnsworth said he always holds two and the turnout is always crazy.