SILER CITY — Many dogs and cats in Chatham County are now protected from a deadly disease.
The Chatham County Sheriff’s Animal Resource Center (ARC), in collaboration with the N.C. State College of Veterinary Medicine, held a free drive-thru rabies vaccination clinic for local pets on Nov. 9.
The four-hour event — sponsored by the Bissell Pet Foundation, which covered the cost of vaccines and syringes, took place at Chatham Charter School in Siler City, providing essential vaccinations for dogs and cats at no cost to pet owners.
“Rabies is still a problem in our state,” Dr. Kelli Ferris, a veterinarian with the N.C. State College of Veterinary Medicine, said. “It’s critical that every dog and cat be vaccinated once they’re four months old as the law requires. Rabies is nearly always fatal. This makes vaccinations a necessity for both pets and public health.”
Capt. Stephen Renn, who oversees the operations at the ARC, emphasized the critical role of vaccinations in rabies prevention.
“Rabies control is a key part of our mission at Animal Resources,” Renn said. “If an animal contracts rabies, it’s fatal. Vaccination protects pets, so if they encounter wildlife or other animals that may carry the virus, they’re safeguarded.”
In addition to staff from the Chatham Sheriff’s Animal Resource Center, 10 third-year veterinary students from N.C. State took part in the clinic, gaining hands-on experience by performing routine exams and administering rabies vaccinations. Ferris noted the importance of the clinic in both protecting pets and supporting the education of future veterinarians.
In addition to providing rabies vaccines, students conducted basic wellness checks, identifying potential health issues like dental needs or growths that may require further examination. Ferris noted that clinics like this provide a crucial opportunity to engage with pet owners about vaccine safety, especially given the prevalence of vaccine misinformation.
“There is a lot of vaccine mistrust out there,” Ferris said. “The rabies vaccine for pets is very safe, and as veterinarians, it’s our job to provide accurate information so pet owners can make informed choices.”
Sheriff Mike Roberson praised the longstanding partnership with N.C. State, recognizing its dual role in delivering vital community services and providing hands-on learning for future veterinarians.
“Our collaboration with the N.C. State College of Veterinary Medicine is invaluable,” he said. “It not only protects pets across Chatham County, but also allows student veterinarians to gain practical experience. We’re proud to support their training as they work toward keeping our communities safe and healthy.”
Ferris also expressed appreciation for the Sheriff’s Office’s support.
“The sheriff has been a true supporter of these programs from the start,” she said.
The Sheriff’s Office’s mobile kitchen was also on-site to support all personnel involved in the clinic, serving wraps, chips, pasta salad and drinks to keep everyone fueled throughout the event. The meal, courtesy of the mobile kitchen staff, was a hit among the hardworking team.
