Hundreds of rabies vaccines given at Bark in the Park Saturday

LELAND, NC (WWAY) — The weather was not only great for us but for dogs too Saturday.

There were lots of happy pups enjoying the sunshine at the annual Bark in the Park event at Leland Municipal Park in Leland.

The event featured a free rabies clinic along with many local pet-centric businesses and a dog adoption.

Organizers says having this event early in the year allows dogs and cats to get their needed vaccines before the start of the season that will be spent more so outdoors.

“This is the 7th annual,” said Town of Leland Recreation Specialist Amy Ryan. “Normally we are able to vaccinate about 300 dogs and cats.”

Lieutenant Thomas Tolley with the Brunswick County Sheriff’s Office Animal Protective Service says it’s a state law to have your dog, cat, or ferret over four months old to have their rabies shot.

“This event makes our jobs easier,” said Tolley. “This event allows the animals to be compliance with the law not to mention it makes your animal a safer animal for you and your neighbors.”

The event was sponsored by Furever Friends Animal Rescue.