Knox County Health Department and the Knoxville Veterinarian Medical Association are offering rabies vaccinations for only $10.

As always, the annual clinics are scheduled for the first two Saturdays in May - May 7 and 14 - from 2 to 4:30 p.m. at 35 Knox County schools.

"Rabies is almost always fatal in animals and humans," said Martha Buchanan, MD, Knox County Health Department director. "Many people don't realize that an unvaccinated pet can infect their family. That's why rabies vaccination is a public health priority."

Tennessee and Knox County laws require all dogs and cats to be vaccinated against rabies, which is caused by a virus that attacks the brain and spinal column. If untreated, death can occur within days of the onset of symptoms. The best way to prevent rabies is to make sure pets get their vaccinations and avoid contact with stray and wild animals, such as bats, raccoons, and skunks. Even pets kept indoors can accidentally encounter wild animals such as bats. Every year, Knox County Health Department has incidents involving bats inside residences. Anytime an unvaccinated animal comes in contact with a rabid animal, it can spread the disease to its human family. Vaccination against the disease is very effective.

At the vaccination clinics, all pets must be restrained: dogs on a leash and cats in carriers or pillowcases (a pillowcase is actually preferred because the vaccine can be administered through the cloth). Those with aggressive or unruly dogs, or who are otherwise unable to control their dog, may ask for assistance at the registration desk. Dogs and cats must be at least three months old to receive a rabies vaccination.

2011 Rabies Clinics:

May 7
2 to 4:30 p.m.

Austin East
Ball Camp Elementary
* Beaumont Elementary
Belle Morris Elementary
Blue Grass Elementary
Dogwood Elementary
East Knox Elementary
Farragut High School
Gresham Middle
* Halls Elementary School
Inskip Elementary
New Hopewell Elementary
Northwest Jr. High
Powell High School
Rocky Hill Elementary
South Doyle High
Sunnyview Elementary
West High School
Beaumont Elementary

* New locations

May 14
2 to 4:30 p.m.

Anderson Head Start Center
Bearden High School
Brickey Elementary
Carter Middle
Cedar Bluff Primary
Chilhowee Elementary
Christenberry Elementary
Copper Ridge Elementary
Gibbs Elementary
Hardin Valley Elementary
Karns Intermediate
Mount Olive Elementary
Norwood Elementary
Ritta Elementary
Shannondale Elementary
West Hills Elementary