The Cumberland County Department of Public Health will hold a “Vax Your Pet, Vax Yourself” event from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Nov. 4 at the Health Department, 1235 Ramsey St., according to a news release.
Bring your pet for a rabies shot and update your own COVID-19 and flu vaccines at no cost. Appointments are not required. Walk-ins are welcome, the release said.
Organizations will also distribute free items and information about programs and services. The Cumberland County Public Library, Department of Social Services, WIC, and the Public Health education team will participate, the release said.
Prize raffles for $100 pre-paid cards will be held every hour, the release said.
Vax Your Pet
Rabies vaccinations for dogs and cats will be $5 for each animal. North Carolina Law says, “The owner of every dog and cat over 4 months of age shall have the animal vaccinated against rabies.” To remain properly immunized, a dog or cat must receive two rabies vaccinations one year apart, then one vaccination every three years thereafter. Dog and cat owners in Cumberland County who have not vaccinated their pet in accordance with this law are subject to a $100 civil penalty, the release said.
While at the clinic, owners must keep dogs leashed and cats in separate carriers or boxes. Owners may be held responsible for any damage their pet causes at the clinic, the release said.
Cash is the only accepted method of payment, the release said. Exact change is required for the $5-per-animal fee, the release said. Bringing rolled coins is discouraged, and checks, debit and credit cards will not be accepted, the release said.
Vax Yourself
Free flu shots are available to everyone regardless of insurance status. Participants will not be billed for flu vaccines. Participants will complete a short registration form when they arrive to the clinic. If insured, a copy of insurance cards will be made, and the insurance company will be billed. Children 18 and younger can receive a free flu vaccine through the Vaccines for Children program. Anyone accompanying a minor must show proof of custody, the release said.
COVID-19 Vaccinations
The Department of Public Health administers Pfizer and Moderna COVID-19 vaccinations. Vaccines are free regardless of insurance status. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends the 2023–24 updated COVID-19 vaccines.
Test Yourself
The Cumberland County Public Health Sexually Transmitted Infections express clinic will be open during this event with confidential testing for HIV, gonorrhea, chlamydia, syphilis, and other STIs, the release said. Testing is free, regardless of insurance status. Call 910-433-3600 to schedule an appointment.
For more information about Cumberland County Department of Public Health programs visit cumberlandcountync.gov/departments/public-health or call 910-433-3600.
