TOWSON, MD—In an effort to share support for families with pets and draw attention to the influx of animals coming into the care of Baltimore County’s only public animal shelter, Baltimore County Animal Services (BCAS) on Wednesday launched its “Life is Better with Pets” campaign.

The “Life is Better with Pets” campaign will share information about responsible pet ownership, resources available to help families keep their pets, as well as highlight successful adoption stories. Throughout the month of October, BCAS is offering free microchipping for pets with the goal of administering 500 microchips in 31 days.

“We recognize that pets are extensions of families, and they really do enhance the lives of their owners. Whether it’s mentally or physically, pets make a huge impact on us and we are working diligently to keep families together,” said BCAS Bureau Director Dr. René Varela. “In addition to low-cost or free services and available educational resources, we are always looking for ways to expand the support we offer.”

As the only open-admission animal shelter in Baltimore County, BCAS has many resources to support families, and recently developed a Pet Care Resource Guide (PDF) to connect families in need with local support. The comprehensive guide includes low-cost vet care options, grant opportunities and pet food banks.

BCAS offers $20 spay and neuter appointments for Baltimore County residents, and all microchip services are free through October – appointments can be made by calling 410-887-PAWS (7297). The shelter is also offering two rabies clinics where residents can get their pet a rabies vaccine and microchip for just $9.

Baltimore County Department of Health is celebrating its centennial, and in highlighting 100 years of service to residents, Animal Services is working to partner with local businesses and organizations to distribute coupons good for free pet microchipping, rabies vaccinations, and waived animal adoption fees.

There are several ways pet owners can take advantage of free microchip administration this month:

• Attend a rabies clinic. The cost of the rabies vaccine is $9, which includes a microchip. Those not in need of rabies vaccines can also get pets microchipped for free at one of these events
• Call 410-887-PAWS (7297) to make an appointment at the Baldwin shelter
• Bring pets to a pop-up adoption event:
  • Halethorpe Petco on 10/2 from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.
  • Dundalk PetSmart on 10/9 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.
  • Dundalk PetSmart on 10/23 from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m.
• Visit the Baldwin shelter on 10/21 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. for Mega Microchip Monday

Adoption fees will continue to be waived throughout the month. For more information on BCAS programs, or to find supports that can help you maintain your pet, visit the BCAS website or call 410-887-PAWS (7297).

The Baltimore County Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) promotes wellbeing among individuals and families by providing quality health, housing and social services. Along with an administrative unit, HHS is comprised of the Departments of Health and Social Services.