Free Pet Vaccinations & Microchips in Richmond

Am I guaranteed to receive services if I show up to Joybound’s free pet vaccine and microchip clinic?

While Joybound strives to serve as many pets and pet guardians as possible, joining the line does not guarantee you and your pet will be seen or offered services that day. Once you are registered, receive a number, and have completed the necessary paperwork, you will be routed to one of our medical stations. Our team will do our best to inform you of when we are at capacity as soon as possible. If you choose to remain in line or wait in the area after registration is closed, you do so at your own discretion will not be provided with services.

Who qualifies for services at Joybound’s free pet vaccine and microchip clinics?

Services at Joybound’s free pet vaccine & microchip clinics are available to pet guardians who live in Contra Costa County and are at least 18 years of age. Please have proof of Contra Costa County residency ready and available at the clinic – digital proof on your smart phone is accepted as well!

The vaccine and microchips are for dogs and cats only, and the animals served must be at least 6 weeks old and safely under control on a leash or in a carrier. Feral cats or community cats do not qualify for these services. 

How can I prove my Contra Costa County residency for services?

The following methods are acceptable for proof of Contra Costa County residency:

• Driver’s license
• Government ID
• Utility bill or lease with a Contra Costa County address and name that matches photo ID

If preferred, you can provide this information on your smart phone as well!

If you do not have an acceptable ID available, please flag a staff member or volunteer to confirm. You may be rerouted to the Community Solutions table for resources on other free or low-cost vaccine clinics that align with your geographic location or do not have county-based restrictions.

What do I need to bring to the free pet vaccine and microchip clinic event?

In addition to bringing proof of Contra Costa County residency, please bring any prior vaccine records the pet has, if available and applicable.

Please ensure your pets in attendance are under control, with dogs on a leash or in a pet carrier and cats in pet carrier throughout the duration of the event. For puppies under 6 months of age, we ask that they are not placed on the ground, instead carried in someone’s arms, or in a wagon (still with a leash or in carrier).

How many pets are treated at a free vaccine and microchip clinic event?

Due to the number of variables for each unique clinic event, we are unable to provide estimations on how many pets will be served. Joybound’s clinic strives to accommodate as many dogs and cats as possible within our capacity on any given clinic day.

When do Joybound’s free vaccine and microchip clinics begin, when should I arrive, and how long are the open for?

The start time of Joybound’s free vaccine and microchip clinics depends on the time of year. From October to April, they begin at 9:00 AM, and from May to September they begin at 8:00. Due to high community demand, we encourage clients to arrive early, as registration and check-in may take a couple hours.

While we strive to serve as many pets and families as possible, demand often exceeds our available capacity, and we cannot guarantee that all attendees will receive services. We appreciate your patience and understanding as we work to support our community

Where and when are Joybound’s free pet vaccine and microchip clinics held?

Joybound’s free pet vaccine and microchip clinics are held every month in rotating locations across Contra Costa County. Generally, the events are held on the second Saturday of the month, but that date may change due to scheduling conflicts on the side of Joybound or the venue. You can find a list of upcoming dates and locations on our website.

What kind of vaccines and services are offered at Joybound’s free pet vaccine and microchip clinics?

Joybound’s free pet vaccine and microchip clinics can offer the following services:

• Dog vaccinations:
  • DAPP (Distemper, Adenovirus type 2, Parainfluenza, & Parvovirus) vaccines
  • Rabies vaccines
• Cat vaccinations:
  • FVRCP (Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus, & Panleukopenia) vaccines
  • Rabies vaccines
• Microchipping
• Dry dog and cat food (please bring a bag or tote to carry the packaged food)
• Additional resources through Joybound’s Community Solutions programs

The team at these community clinics is unable to provide Canine Influenza vaccines, Leptospirosis vaccines, Bordetella vaccines, etc. 

Is flea and ticket preventative offered at these clinic events?

Flea and tick medication is not guaranteed to be offered at these clinic events. Depending on available supplies at the time of the event, we may have limited amounts available. If available, all pets receiving flea and tick preventative medication must also be receiving vaccines and/or microchip services.

Can I feed my pet after they receive their vaccinations?

Yes, you can feed your pet after they receive their vaccinations. There is no reason to withhold food after these services.

When are my puppy’s vaccines effective and when can my puppy walk outside?

Joybound recommends discussing your pet’s individual vaccination needs with your primary veterinarian. According to American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) guidelines, puppies under 16 weeks of age should receive 3 DAPP vaccines every 2-4 weeks until they are at least 16 weeks old. Dogs over 16 weeks of age who have not completed their vaccine series should receive at least 2 DAPP vaccines, 2-4 weeks apart. Your pet should be considered fully protected 14 days after the final recommended vaccine.

Will Joybound’s free pet vaccine and microchip clinic be cancelled due to poor weather?

Due to the importance of these free pet vaccine and microchip clinics, as well as community demand, services will continue – rain or shine. During potentially dangerous weather conditions (lightning, heavy wind, etc.), please check Joybound’s social media accounts for updates on the status of the upcoming clinic event.

Where can I take my pet for these services if I am not a Contra Costa County resident?

There are a variety of incredible organizations across Northern California who can help pet guardians outside of Contra Costa County. Please visit our Pet Vaccination Resources list to find a provider near you.