Local community organizations and veterinarians joined together Saturday at Friends in Service Helping, also known as FISH, to provide free vaccinations and wellness exams to pets belonging to homeless and low-income individuals in Carson City.
As of 11:30 a.m. Saturday, 84 owners have signed up their dogs and cats for vaccinations, with dozens more waiting to sign in. The event is hosted annually by Pets of the Homeless.
“This is a community event and we want to make sure all these animals and safe for our community in Carson City,” said Genevieve Frederick, founder of Feeding Pets of the Homeless, a nationwide organization based here in the capital city.
These annual Pets of the Homeless clinics have provided vaccinations for more than 600 animals in Carson City. Similar events are held across the country.
Joining Feeding Pets of the Homeless, are Veterinarian David J. Kowalek, BVMS- owner of Riverside Veterinary Hospital in Dayton, who, along with staff members, are providing the vaccinations. Also on hand are Carson Tahoe Health nurses who are on site providing human flu vaccines, as well as CASI, which is giving out spay/neuter vouchers and Nevada Humane Society, on hand to support with free dog licensing for Carson City residents and micro-chips anyone who needs them.
Dog and cat food, supplies and toys were also available to pet owners at the event. The pet food is donated from community members through various campaigns, as well as wish lists on Amazon and Chewy. Pet food is also distributed to various organizations that serve the low income and the homeless.
Frederick noted that SNAP benefits does not allow people to purchase pet food.
“That’s why it’s so important because pet food is just as expensive as human food. So while they are at the Salvation Army, at FISH, Ron Wood Resource Center or down at the food bank in Douglas or other location sites, they can get pet food from these organizations that distribute as our pet food providers.”
FISH is located at 138 E Long St, Carson City. The wellness clinic will continue Saturday until the vaccinations run out.
