Washington, DC

– The DC Department of Health (DOH) announced today that it will begin hosting its annual free pet vaccination and health service clinics in each ward of the District starting this coming Saturday, May 7, 2011.  As in previous years DOH has offered pet vaccinations, dog licenses and neutering and spaying services, however, this year the Department will offer additional services  and education sessions for residents and their pets.  

2011 Animal Health Fair Services

The free animal health clinics are a part of the Department’s efforts to prevent and control the spread of communicable diseases transmitted from animals to humans.  Pet vaccination clinics are open to the pets of District residents, and will be offered from May 7 to June 11.

In addition, District law requires all owners to license their dogs, and vaccinate all cats and dogs over four months old against rabies and distemper.  Dogs must be secured on a leash and cats must be secured in a carrier box. The cost of a dog licenses is $15 for a spayed or neutered dog, and $50 for an unspayed or unneutered dog.  Microchipping where available is offered by the Washington Humane Society at the cost of $35 per pet, and can be paid in cash only. 

Pet owners are advised to bring pet vaccination records if pets have already been vaccinated prior to attending the animal health clinics.  Upcoming animal health clinics will also feature information on responsible pet ownership, such as how to properly dispose of dog waste and the importance of following the District’s leash law.

For more information regarding the animal health clinics, visit doh.dc.gov.