Raccoon Rabies Vaccine Baiting

Beginning on April 29th, baits containing rabies vaccines will be left around some Cape Cod towns in an effort to protect the community from raccoon rabies.  The baits are not harmful to pets or humans, but they are made of fishmeal, so they will be attractive to cats and dogs. The baits will be left out in Barnstable and all towns east to Orleans in areas where raccoons are likely to be found, and will be labeled with a warning message and phone number. Again, the baits are not harmful to pets, but you can call the USDA Wildlife Services Rabies Program Coordinator, Brian Bjorklund at (508) 476-2715 (office) or (413) 537-9394 (cell) if you are concerned about an accidental ingestion. The baiting program will go on until May 20th.

Reunited!

Microchipping is a simple procedure that can greatly increase the chances of having your lost pet returned to you.  Here are just a few stories of pets being reunited with their families thanks to the microchip:

George was missing for 13 years before animal control finally contacted his owners with the news that he was found.

Shady ended up 900 miles from her home, but got back to her family thanks to her microchip.

Holly traveled 200 miles before her microchip was scanned by a veterinarian, who was then able to find her family.



If your pet is already microchipped, make sure that all of your contact information is up to date with the microchip company. If your pet is not microchipped, contact your veterinarian, or give us a call at VACC (508) 394-3566. The procedure takes just seconds, and can be done without anesthesia.

April is Prevention of Animal Cruelty Month

The Animal Legal Defense Fund's 2012 Animal Protection Laws Rankings is a list of states with the best and worst laws for animals.

According to the list, Massachusetts (ranking at number 15) is one of the better states for animals.
In honor of Prevention of Animal Cruelty Month, here are the top 5 states with the best animal protection laws:

1. Illinois
2. Maine
3. California
4. Michigan
5. Oregon

Pet Hospice

Dealing with the loss of a pet is never easy. The days, weeks, or months leading up to the end of a pet's life can be even more difficult. Hospice focuses on keeping your pet as comfortable as possible in his own home during his last days, and gives you the chance to say goodbye.

At VACC, we are here to help you through this difficult time. Whether you need instruction on how to give treatments at home, or advice on the best ways to keep your pet comfortable, we are available.

If you find yourself caring for a terminally ill pet, another great resource is New England Pet Hospice. Their staff are trained in hospice and palliative care, and will come to your home to assist you with the care of your pet. New England Pet Hospice is in the process of expanding to Cape Cod, and they hope to have hands on care for all of the Cape by the end of 2013. If they are not available in your area yet, they do currently have the ability to provide support remotely via phone or email.
In addition to caring for your pet in your home, New England Pet Hospice also has an Interfaith Advisor who can provide grief support, as well as funerals and memorial ceremonies.

Pet hospice is quickly becoming more commonplace. If you live outside of New England and are looking for resources, the International Association of Animal Hospice and Palliative Care is a great place to start. There you can find a list of hospice care professionals, as well as answers to frequently asked questions, and more information about hospice.