Texas Nonprofit Offers Free Pet Vaccines for Families in Need

For families struggling to afford veterinary care in East Montgomery County, Texas, keeping their beloved pets healthy just got a whole lot easier.

The AABY Foundation has been quietly transforming pet health in New Caney since 2004. What started as a mission to help seniors care for their animals has blossomed into a community lifeline serving anyone who needs affordable veterinary services.

Medical coordinator Kerri Larson says the need became crystal clear when distemper and parvo rates started climbing across the region. Many pet owners simply couldn't afford the vaccines their animals needed to survive.

The education gap was just as concerning. Larson explains that many people don't realize puppies need four vaccines before their first birthday to stay protected against deadly diseases.

Now, the foundation hosts free vaccination clinics twice a year at Bull Salas Park. The events are open to everyone, no questions asked and no restrictions applied.

Rabies and Bordetella vaccines cost between $10 and $12, while other critical vaccines are completely free. Microchipping runs $20, though organizers are working to make that free too. Participants just need to bring their pets and cash.

The Ripple Effect

The impact extends far beyond vaccination day. Clinic attendees can sign up for free or low-cost spay and neuter services through partnerships with other area nonprofits, helping control pet populations while keeping costs manageable for families.

The foundation even travels to homeless camps, ensuring unhoused community members can care for their animal companions. Every service is powered by volunteers like Lidia Martinez, co-founder of Alaska's Hope animal rescue, who says the work brings tremendous joy to her life.

Each clinic costs $5,000 to operate, funded entirely through donations and proceeds from the AABY Thrift Shop. It's exhausting work, Larson admits, but watching families leave with healthy, protected pets makes every moment worthwhile.

Sometimes the best gifts are the ones we give away.