def incr(stat, count=1, rate=1, buf=None, rate_applied=False):
    """
        Increment a counter by ``count``.

        Note that Statsd clears all counter values every time it sends
        the metrics to Graphite, which usually happens every 10
        seconds. If you need a persistent value, it may be more
        appropriate to use a gauge instead of a counter.
        """
