Wake County Animal Center urges families to join Community Pet Days

The much-anticipated Community Pet Days are back, bringing free and low-cost wellness services to pet owners throughout March and April. The events will provide essential resources, such as free vaccines and microchipping, to help families keep their pets in their homes.

Spring Community Pet Days are scheduled on the following Sundays from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.:

March 24 at Wake County Northern Regional Center, 350 E. Holding Ave., Wake Forest
April 7 at Dorcas Ministries, 187 High House Road, Cary
April 21 at Wake County Southern Regional Center, 130 N Judd Parkway NE, Fuquay-Varina

The following services will be provided:

Rabies vaccination: a vaccine that protects against the rabies virus. Both 1-year and 3-year vaccines are offered. Bring proof of prior rabies vaccination (this must be a certificate or vet paperwork; a rabies tag is not sufficient). If you have the paperwork from your pet’s last rabies shot, your pet could get the 3-year vaccine. If you do not have paperwork, your pet can still get the 1-year vaccine. Cost $5.
DHPP: a combination vaccine that protects against five dog diseases – distemper, canine hepatitis, canine adenovirus, canine parainfluenza and parvovirus. Free.
FVRCP: a combination vaccine that protects against three cat diseases – feline herpesvirus 1 (FHV-1), feline calicivirus (FCV) and feline panleukopenia (FPV or feline distemper). Free.
Microchip: a small, electronic chip enclosed in a glass cylinder (about the size of a grain of rice), implanted under the skin and used to identify pets. The microchip is read by a scanner and shows an identification number that corresponds to the owner’s contact information. Free.
Please note: no other vaccines, flea or veterinary services are being offered. Services will be provided while supplies last.

Please note:

WAKE COUNTY RESIDENTS ONLY: Due to a limited number of vaccines and microchips, these events are only open to residents of Wake County.
MAXIMUM OF FOUR (4) PETS: Plan to attend an additional event if you have more than four pets who need services.
WATER AND WEATHER: Wait times frequently exceed an hour or two. Please check the weather, dress appropriately and bring water for you and your pet(s). If you have an umbrella to provide shade or a chair you’d like to use while you wait, we encourage you to bring it! In the event of a cancelation due to inclement weather, please make sure to check our website in the morning of the event for any updates.
RABIES PAPERWORK: Bring proof of prior rabies vaccination (this must be a certificate or vet paperwork; a rabies tag is not sufficient). If you have the paperwork from your pet’s last rabies shot, your pet could get the 3-year vaccine. If you do not have paperwork, your pet can still get the 1-year vaccine.

More at wake.gov/PetDays

Find Your Pot of Gold this St. Patrick's Day at Wake County Animal Center

Who needs a leprechaun when you can find your own pot of gold at the Wake County Animal Center this St. Patrick's Day! From March 16 through 22, the Wake County Animal Center is launching an adoption campaign with deals that will make you feel luckier than a four-leaf clover! You can adopt dogs six months and older for just $25 and cats for only $5.

There are 83 dogs, one puppy, 14 cats and one kitten waiting to be adopted at the shelter. Another 34 dogs, four cats and one kitten are with foster families and available for adoption.

"Since the beginning of this year, the Animal Center has either been near capacity or full, with few empty kennels available,” said Dr. Jennifer Federico, director of the Animal Center. “The number of animals entering the shelter always outnumbers those leaving the center. This adoption campaign is yet another chance to take advantage of a great deal and help the animals find forever homes."

In addition to reducing fees, the Animal Center staff and volunteers will help you find the best match. They will ask potential adopters for information to help connect them with the best pet for their lifestyle. While everyone adores puppies and kittens, adult pets are sometimes an even better choice for adoption, because they have already settled into their traits and personalities. That helps take the guesswork out of wondering how a pet will fit in with your family or lifestyle.

Before going to their new homes, all pets receive spay/neuter surgery, microchipping and required vaccinations.

March Holidays

National Animal Poison Prevention Week is here! From March 17 to 23, let's ensure our furry friends stay safe from common household hazards. As spring blooms, be mindful of toxic plants, medications, and other potential dangers. Educate yourself on items that can harm your pets:

❌Xylitol: Found in sugarless gums, candies and baked goods. Can cause life-threatening drops in blood sugar or liver failure.

❌Human Medications: NSAIDs, acetaminophen and antidepressants pose serious risks to pets, including stomach ulcers, kidney failure, and neurological issues.

❌Flowers: Certain lilies, daffodils and tulips can lead to severe toxicity or even fatalities in animals.

❌Chocolate: Dark chocolate and baker’s chocolate contain methylxanthines, which can cause vomiting, diarrhea, seizures and death.

❌Fertilizers & Pest Control Products: Some contain harmful chemicals like organophosphates, causing drooling, seizures or even death if ingested.

Stay informed and keep your pets safe! If you suspect poisoning, contact your veterinarian immediately.