May 7, 2015

Note to Pet Owners: Next Rabies Vaccination Clinic, May 17

Under Montgomery County law, all dogs, cats and ferrets over the age of four months must have a current rabies vaccination.

The Police Department’s Animal Services Division offers free rabies vaccination clinics with the purchase of a Montgomery County Pet License on the third Sunday of each month through September. Clinics are held between 8 and 10:30 a.m. at the Montgomery County Animal Services and Adoption Center (MCASAC), 7315 Muncaster Mill Rd., Derwood. Parking at the MCASAC is limited.

Rabies vaccinations for dogs and cats are administered by a veterinarian free for County residents. However, residents must purchase a pet license if their pet does not currently have one. There is a $4 fee for rabies vaccinations for ferrets. For a $10 fee, microchip implantation for dogs and cats with a valid rabies vaccination and pet license will also be offered at the clinics.

Pet owners are asked to make sure dogs are leashed and cats and ferrets are in a carrier or otherwise contained when they are brought in for a vaccination. Because the health of humans, as well as animals, is affected by the rabies virus, failure to vaccinate an animal as required may subject its owner to a $500 fine.

Get more information about the rabies clinics and pet licensing requirements.