Annual Rabies Vaccination Clinic

Veterinary technician Mary Simpson hugged Maggie, a Yorkie, close to her as Rakesh Vali, DVM, of Mt Pleasant Hospital for Animals gave the pet its rabies vaccination earlier this month. On Saturday, June 11, he and Ms Simpson administered 75 vaccinations to Newtown residents’ pets during an annual clinic in the Edmond Town Hall gymnasium.

Town Clerk Debbie Aurelia said, “It was busier than usual,” this year, with 65 dogs and 10 cats that made use of the clinic.

Canine Advocates of Newtown volunteers Virginia Jess, Judi Falbo, Mary Singerland, Denise Jurasek, and Frank McClosky helped residents and pets as they waited to see Dr Vali. Also volunteering their time that morning were Newtown Woman’s Club, GFWC, members who, for 19 years, have assisted with writing up all vaccination certificates at the clinic. Representing the club this year were Lorraine VanderWende, Marilyn Alexander, Carol Mattegat, Mary Antey, Evelyn Spera, Pat Denlinger, Marion Thompson, and Ellyn Gehrett.

Also at the clinic were assistants to the town clerk Renee Weimann and Aileen Nosal, who issued more than 56 dog licenses that day.

Ms Aurelia thanked all the volunteers this week, saying, “They really worked hard, did such a good job, and made this possible.”

Participating this year for the first time were local pet businesses and rescue organizations, including Your Healthy Pet, Pawtown, Connie’s Canine Care, the Animal Center, and the Newtown Parks and Recreation Department, touting its “Park n Bark” dog park.

“We had vendors to help attract pet owners and to help the community learn of the services that are out there,” Ms Aurelia said.