City of Bowie Partners with Prince George’s County Health Department to Host Rabies Vaccination & Microchip Clinic
City of Bowie Spay & Neuter to Offer Free Rabies Vaccinations and Microchips this Weekend
Largo, Maryland - The City of Bowie is pleased to announce a partnership with Prince George's County Health Department to provide free rabies vaccinations and microchips for pet owners residing in Prince George's County.
“Ensuring that pets are vaccinated and identifiable is an important step in protecting both animal and public health,” said Dr. Toyin Opesanmi, Prince George’s County’s Health Officer. “We encourage all pet owners to take advantage of this opportunity to keep their pets safe, healthy, and connected to their families.”
The clinic will take place on Saturday, April 18, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM, and aims to promote pet health and safety as the county prepares for its active summer months.
Dr. Allison Mocko, owner and Medical Director of Bowie Spay & Neuter, emphasized the importance of this clinic in ensuring that community members have the resources they need to give their pets the best possible lives.
"Rabies vaccinations are crucial for preserving the lives of our pets and keeping the public safe," Dr. Mocko stated. "Preparing for a pleasant summer season includes our responsibilities as pet owners, and this clinic will make rabies shots and microchipping accessible to all members of the Prince George's County community."
The event will be held at Bowie City Hall, located at 15901 Fred Robinson Way, Bowie, MD 20716, with parking available in the rear lot.
Pets must be at least three months old to receive a rabies vaccine and should be leashed or in a carrier during the clinic. Pet owners must be present with their pets to ensure the safety of the clinic staff.
Although hosted by the City of Bowie and Prince George's County Health Department, there are no residency requirements for this upcoming rabies vaccination and microchip clinic.
Rabies vaccines are valid for one year unless a prior rabies certificate is provided. In Prince George's County, it is legally mandated that all cats, dogs, and ferrets be licensed by four months of age and renewed annually thereafter.
Everyone in Prince George's County is encouraged to invite friends, family, and neighbors to ensure that all families have access to these valuable services at no cost.
####
ABOUT THE PRINCE GEORGE’S COUNTY HEALTH DEPARTMENT
The Prince George’s County Health Department provides leadership, coordination, and support for efforts to improve all residents’ access to high-quality and affordable health care services. In 1880, the General Assembly authorized the State Board of Health to establish local health boards in every city, town, and legislative district. County responsibilities were assigned in 1886, with the Board of County Commissioners becoming Prince George's County Board of Health. In 1914, it came under the control of the State Department of Health, established in 1910. The 1922 'County Health Law' expanded county health duties, leading to the appointment of full-time health officers in each county. Today, the Health Department, led by the Health Officer, provides public health services and enforces health laws within Prince George's County. Programs address community health needs and offer services unavailable in the private sector. The Health Officer, appointed by the Secretary of Health, is the executive officer and secretary of the County Board of Health.
