Clinics offer procedures for pets
Pet lovers can help control the overpopulation of unwanted dogs and cats by having their animals spayed or neutered.

"Each year animal shelters around the country receive more dogs and cats than can be adopted, which stretch available resources," said Edward Rumen, the Ocean County Health Department's public information officer.

Dr. Ella Boyd, public health coordinator, said, "The majority of pet owners are not breeders, so it makes sense to eliminate bringing unplanned kittens and puppies into the world."

"To help reduce unwanted litters, the health department, in cooperation with the Volunteer Auxiliary for Animal Shelters, will hold a series of low-cost spay/neuter clinics open to lower income and moderate income Ocean County residents," Rumen said.

"We realize the full cost of spaying or neutering the family pet can be a burden on families with limited incomes," Boyd said. "These clinics can help a family of modest means meet the expense of such a service."

The cost to a family meeting income eligibility is $30 for cats and $45 for dogs (40 pounds or less). This includes a rabies vaccination as well as the spay/neuter procedure. Household income eligibility can be up to 185 percent of the federal poverty level, currently $18,889 for a single person household or $38,203 for a family of four.

"To participate in this program, income verification is necessary," Rumen said. "For household size not listed and for additional information, pet owners should call (732) 657-8086."

The clinics will be held May 5, July 28 and Sept. 8. All clinics will be held in a mobile surgical van that will be placed in the parking lot of the American Veterans (AMVETS) Hall, Route 571, 1 mile north of Hope Chapel Road, Jackson.

Appointments are necessary and can be made up to five weeks before any clinic date. For an appointment, call the Northern Ocean CountyAnimal Shelter at (732) 657-8086. The procedures are done by licensed veterinarians using dissolvable stitches.

"Help control pet over-population by taking advantage of this excellent program," said Ocean County Freeholder Gerry P, Little, liaison to the Board of Health. "Not only will you have a happier pet, you will be helping your pet cat by reducing the risk factors of certain types of feline cancers and diseases."