Clinic vaccinates Valley pups

WARREN -- Wanting to make sure that dogs receive their rabies and other needed shots, the Healthy Hearts and Paws Project and the Newton Falls Animal Hospital teamed up over the weekend to provide the shots for free.

Jason Cooke, founder of Healthy Hearts and Paws, said a dog vaccine clinic was set up at the shelter so dogs could receive shots for rabies, distemper and parva.

"We did this in conjunction with our dog food giveaway. People could bring their dogs here for their shots and receive food. This is the first time we have held a clinic like this. We plan to continue this and do it twice a year," Cooke said.

Cooke said often, many people can't afford to take their dogs to the vet and that is why they offered the free clinic.

"Many people do not have the money to pay for the shots," he said.

Dr. Wendi Rockwell of the Newton Falls Animal Hospital said Healthy Hearts and Paws covered the costs for the shots and she and her staff came to the event to administer them.

Ashley Palmer, a veterinary assistant, said some dogs were not bothered by being given a shot while others were scared and did not want to sit still.

Cooke said when they first opened the clinic, the line was down the sidewalk. Cooke said all dogs 3 months or older in Trumbull County are required to have a rabies shot.

Information was also provided to the public on spaying and neutering of pets to help control the pet population.

The public appreciated the clinic as local residents brought nearly 200 dogs for shots.

Warren resident Renee McCaman said she heard about the clinic and brought her two dogs, Cody, a dachshund-chihuahua mix, and Cricket, a dachshund-corgi mix.

"I wanted to make sure they are healthy and appreciate that this clinic was offered to the public," she said.

Chyanna Carbone of Niles brought her dog Diesel, a German Shepherd/husky mix.

"What they do here is wonderful work that helps the dogs. People love their dogs and need to take care of them," Carbone said.

Warren resident Gary Smith brought his dog, George, a Rottweiler-husky mix.

"It is important for people to do what they can to keep their pets safe," Smith said.

Cooke said the shots were given inside the new dog shelter that is set to open Oct. 10.

He said the new area under construction will help in housing the increased number of dogs the shelter has received.

"We can't keep up with all the dogs that are coming in. Thai new area will provide the dogs with better accommodations with larger kennels, a play area and a room for smaller dog breeds,'' Cooke said.