The Cook County Department of Animal & Rabies Control has announced a series of community clinics to be held from June through September that will allow pet owners in Cook County to receive discounts on rabies vaccinations and micro-chipping for their dogs, cats and ferrets through the Department's mobile medical units.

Rabies vaccines will cost $7 for a shot that is good for a single year and $21 for a shot good for three years. Pet owners can have their pets microchipped for $10. Both fee schedules are below the cost that veterinarians typically charge for these procedures. The shots and microchips are available to all dogs, cats and ferrets three months old and greater owned by Cook County residents with a valid ID. Residents must pay for the services by check or cash only. No credit or debit cards are accepted.

Cook County's low-cost clinic services will be offered throughout the County over the next four months from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. on designated days. The schedule is posted at local Jewel Food Stores and at the County's website at www.cookcountygov.com.

The Cook County Department of Animal & Rabies Control provides rabies vaccination and stray animal control, a spay and neuter program, a variety of community partnership, education and assistance programs, a pet return service and the County's pet registration program, which includes rabies tags.

The Department is responsible for administering the County's Animal Control Ordinance, which serves as the law in all municipalities within Cook County and is designed to protect both animals and humans in animal/human interactions. That includes protecting animals from improper use, abuse, neglect, inhumane treatment and health hazards, particularly rabies; providing security to residents from annoyance, intimidation, and injury from cats, dogs, and other animals; encouraging responsible pet ownership; and providing for the assessment of penalties for violators and for the enforcement and administration of the ordinance, which was last amended in October 2007.

For more information, contact the Cook County Department of Animal and Rabies Control at 708-974-6140 or online at the Department of Animal and Rabies Control website.

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