By Steve Elliott
Managing Editor

In an effort to promote responsible pet ownership, Alamo Heights officials have scheduled an animal fair providing pet registration, on-site vaccinations and microchip implants.

The third annual event is scheduled for Saturday, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at 246 Viesca, the nature trail area next to the Alamo Heights swimming pool. A number of animal experts – animal welfare/rescue groups, spay and neuter service providers, feral cat control advocates and retailers offering pet supplies and services – are scheduled to be on hand.

“It’ll be a very good opportunity for residents to register their pets,” said the Alamo Heights Police Department’s community resource officer J.W. Petrash, singling out just one of the opportunities afforded at the fair. The registration offering is limited to dogs, cats and ferrets, according to literature provided by the city.

In registering animals, costs vary for Alamo Heights residents: A one-time license fee costs $20, or $5 if the animal is already spayed or neutered, and free with proof of a microchip implant. Pet owners are asked to provide proof of current rabies vaccinations.

Microchipping will be offered at a cost of $25 by the Animal Defense League. Information on adoption and foster programs also can be gotten at the fair. There will also be a pet costume contest from 9 to 11:30 a.m., a canine agility demonstration and hourly prize drawings.

“We think we’re going to have a good fair for residents and non-residents,” Petrash said, noting attendees need not be Alamo Heights residents to avail themselves of services.

Mayor Louis Cooper singled out the microchip effort in particular as a valuable tool for pet owners: “I’m a big believer in that. It’s a good way to get pets back as quickly as you can.”