Pinellas County Animal Services and SPCA Tampa Bay are celebrating a successful year of providing community veterinary services at the Lealman Exchange Community Center. The two animal organizations teamed up to provide free vaccinations and microchips for dogs and cats when their owners purchased a Pinellas County animal license. A total of four clinics were held on select Saturdays in 2023.
In total, the animal welfare organizations served 185 animals—131 dogs and 54 cats—out of Pinellas County Animal Services’ mobile veterinary trailer. One of the critical services offered at the clinic was the administration of rabies vaccines. Rabies is a potentially fatal disease that poses a threat not only to pets but also to human health. A total of 174 animals received rabies vaccines at LEX in 2023, protecting the individual pets and contributing to the broader community’s safety by reducing the risk of rabies transmission.
Pinellas County Animal Services and SPCA Tampa Bay encourage all pet owners to microchip their animals—even if they’re indoor pets. A microchip is a tiny device implanted under the skin that serves as a permanent form of identification for furry companions. Microchips are essential in the reunification of pets with their owners, especially during disasters like hurricanes. 95 animals were given microchips in 2023, ensuring that these animals can find their way home if they’re ever separated from their families.
SPCA Tampa Bay and Pinellas County Animal Services are looking forward to hosting more vaccine clinics at the Lealman Exchange in 2024. If you’d like to learn more about the services that these animal welfare organizations offer, visit www.pinellas.gov/department/animal-services/ and www.spcatampabay.org.