Free Pet Vaccine Clinic Hosted by Snake River Animal Shelter on September 26

The clinic will run from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Idaho K9 Academy building, located next to the Snake River Animal Shelter. This initiative is part of Petco Love's "Vaccinated and Loved" program, aimed at preventing avoidable diseases in pets nationwide.

The vaccines available include DAPPv for dogs and HCP for cats, offered on a first-come, first-served basis. The shelter aims to vaccinate approximately 200 pets during the event.

In addition to free vaccinations, microchips will also be provided at no cost. Pets without existing microchips must receive one prior to vaccination.

Low-cost options will be available as well, such as $20 rabies vaccinations for both dogs and cats, and $15 Bordetella vaccines for dogs. The shelter accepts cash or Venmo for these services.

Michelle Ziel-Dingman, Executive Director of the Snake River Animal Shelter, emphasized that this partnership with Petco Love helps eliminate barriers that restrict pet owners from obtaining necessary preventive care. She stated that making vaccinations accessible benefits the entire community.

Petco Love highlights that diseases like parvovirus and distemper in dogs, along with panleukopenia in cats, are preventable through vaccination. Previous surveys revealed only 38% of pet owners had reported their pets received vaccinations, underscoring the importance of such free clinics.

Chelsea Staley, President of Petco Love, noted these clinics often serve as an introduction for families who have not yet established routine veterinary care, emphasizing their long-term impact on pet health.

Pet owners planning to attend are advised to bring dogs on leashes and cats in carriers. The shelter cannot vaccinate pets that are sick, injured, unowned, or have known adverse reactions to vaccines or people.

For further details, pet owners can contact the Snake River Animal Shelter at 208-523-4219.