Anyone from Malden and surrounding communities is welcome to bring their dog or cat for just $15

  The Malden Rabies Vaccine Clinic is back and will be held on Saturday, May 20 from 10:00 a.m. to noon at the Malden Central Fire Station (1 Sprague St. [corner of Salem Street]). The fire station is located directly across the street from Malden High School (77 Salem St., Malden.)

  Malden Police Dept. Animal Control Officer Kevin Alkins is urging all pet “parents” in Malden and surrounding communities to take advantage of the return of the Rabies Vaccine Clinic. The clinic was postponed during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic but is now “back in business” for the second year in a row, according to Alkins. While in the past the clinic has been open to Malden residents only, the pet protection clinic is now available to all nonresidents as well.

  “We want to make sure anyone who wants to take advantage of the clinic and protect their beloved dogs and cats can have this opportunity,” Alkins said. “We have had successful rabies vaccination clinics for many years in Malden and our residents appreciate the services offered here.”

  Alkins said now more than ever is the time to have pets vaccinated, since many dogs and cats may have missed their rabies vaccinations during 2020 and 2021 in the first years of the COVID-19 pandemic. “Pets need protection from rabies, which is a life-threatening disease to animals and humans,” Alkins said. “With the better weather and the increase of wildlife presence right in our residential neighborhoods and business areas, it is vital that pets are vaccinated against rabies.”

  The biggest rise of wild animals in the area have been coyotes, with other common animals afflicted with rabies being raccoons, skunks and opossums.

  Rabies is a preventable viral disease most often transmitted through the bite of a rabid animal. The rabies virus infects the central nervous system of animals and humans alike, ultimately causing disease in the brain and death.

  The cost of the Rabies Vaccination for dogs and cats is only $15.00 per shot with the following regulations:

  —All dogs must be leashed

  —All cats must be in a carrier

  — Masks are optional, but all those attending are encouraged to continue to observe social distancing considerations

  For any questions or for more information, contact Malden Police Animal Control at 781-397-7171, x1302.