HARRISONBURG, VA (Rocktown Now) — Anicira Veterinary Center will host the Healthy Pets Event, a free community event reportedly designed to make pet care more accessible. The event will take place on Saturday, October 11, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Hillandale Park, 801 Hillandale Avenue, Harrisonburg, VA.

What’s offered:

  • Free vaccines and flea/tick treatment for family dogs and cats (including Rabies, DAPPv, and Combo vaccines).
  • Pet care resources and free pet supplies (donations from the community are welcome).

Who can attend / eligibility:

  • The event is open to all families — there are no residency restrictions and no limit on the number of family pets participants can bring.
  • Family pets only (community or feral cats cannot be accepted).
  • Previous dog and cat vaccination records should be brought to the event if possible.
  • Cats must be in carriers (some carriers may be available for use on-site).
  • Dogs must be leashed (non-retractable leashes recommended); special accommodations will be provided for anxious or reactive dogs when possible.
  • Services are offered first-come, first-served — no reservations required.

Pet Food Pantry (same morning):
Before the Healthy Pets event, Anicira will also distribute free pet food the same morning through its regular twice-monthly Pet Food Pantry. Food distribution runs 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. at Anicira’s Pet Food Pantry located at 910 N. Liberty Street.

How to get involved:
Community members are encouraged to spread the word to families who could benefit, to donate pet supplies through, or volunteer at the event. Complete event details, volunteer sign-up, and donation information are available at Anicira’s event page.

“Too often, families who love their pets struggle to access basic care,” said Mary Golden-Hughes, Marketing & Communications Manager at Anicira Veterinary Center in a release. “The Healthy Pets Event helps bridge that gap so more animals can thrive in safe, loving homes. We look forward to meeting many new pet families at the event.”