Free Rabies Vaccinations Offered Sept. 29 for World Rabies Day

El Dorado County Animal Services is teaming up with area veterinarians and animal welfare agencies to offer free rabies vaccinations for cats and dogs on World Rabies Day on Sept. 29. The free rabies vaccinations will be offered from 9  a.m. to 5 p.m. at the El Dorado County Government Center located at 330 Fair Lane in Placerville. Dogs must be on leash; cats must be in pet carriers. El Dorado County residents only, please.

In addition to free rabies vaccine, Animal Services will also offer dog licenses for a fee. Unlicensed dogs may receive the rabies vaccine at no cost at the free rabies clinic, but their owners must purchase a dog license within 30 days. There is currently no requirement to license cats in El Dorado County.

“Vaccinating cats and dogs is critical to the prevention of rabies in our communities,” said Chief of El Dorado County Animal Services Henry Brzezinski. “The rabies virus is present in our county and we find wild animals with the virus each year. Without a vaccination, pets can acquire rabies and pass it on to people and other pets. Left untreated, rabies is almost always fatal.”

Other animal groups throughout the Sacramento area will also offer free rabies vaccinations on World Rabies Day. For the complete list of clinics, visit www.svvma.com