The Genesee and Orleans County Health Departments (GO Health) are reminding pet owners the importance of keeping their dog(s) leashed and under control at all times. This year, there have been numerous reported incidents of off-leash dogs biting children, pedestrians, and cyclists.
Leashing dogs can give pet owners greater control over their animals and lower the risk of mishaps, aggressive behavior toward people or other pets, and interactions with wildlife. “GO Health is strongly encouraging all pet owners to prioritize the safety of themselves, their pets, and the broader community,” stated Darren Brodie, Environmental Health Director for GO Health. “Leashing your dogs is an essential step to prevent dog bites and protect the safety of all residents.”
In 2023, Genesee County investigated 191 animal bite and rabies incidents, and Orleans County investigated 137. In 2023, a combined total of 45 individuals were treated for rabies post exposure, 22 in Genesee County and 23 in Orleans County. Many of these incidents could have been avoided by pet owners keeping their dog on a leash.
Pet owners should:
•Keep your dog fenced in or on a leash when outside of your home and in public areas.
•Avoid allowing your dog to approach unfamiliar dogs, people, or wildlife.
•Stay on top of your pets yearly vaccinations.
Residents are encouraged to take note of upcoming drive-thru rabies vaccination clinics for dogs, cats, and ferrets in Genesee and Orleans Counties that are offered at no charge.
Genesee County Rabies Clinics will be held at the Genesee County Fairgrounds, 5056 East Main Street, Batavia, on Thursday, August 8, from 4 to 7 p.m.; and Thursday, October 10, from 4 to 6 p.m.
Orleans County Rabies Clinics will be held at the Orleans County Fairgrounds, 12690 State Route 31, Albion, on Saturday, August 10, from 9 to 11:30 a.m.; and Saturday, October 19, from 9 to 11:30 a.m.
For more information on GO Health’s programs and services, visit http://GOHealthNY.org.
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