An Easy Fix: Low Cost Spay Neuter Programs for Cats and Dogs

While there are plenty of reasons we can list why you should get your pets spayed or neutered, there seems to be only four logical reasons you wouldn’t:

--You are going to show him or her at a dog show. In order to be eligible for competition at the most prestigious dog shows, like Westminster, dogs must remain “intact”.  However, neutered and spayed cats can compete in cat shows.
--You are going to breed him or her.
--You don’t care for Justin Beiber.
--You don’t think you can afford the cost.

While not even Justin could persuade you on the first three objections on that list, if you’ve got your heart set on it, we can give you some help on how to keep the cost more manageable through several regional and national programs. Some of the low- or no-cost programs are income-based, but most are not.

Here are a few resources to get you started, but be sure to share your own ideas in the comments section.

• Call your local SPCA to ask for information about low-cost spay and neuter clinics and certificate programs. Clinics are usually sponsored once or twice a year; certificate programs are year round.
• The website Low Cost Neuter and Spay has a searchable database of programs throughout the U.S., Canada and Europe.
• The website LoveThatCat has a list of low- and no-cost spay neuter programs solely for cats.
• Friends of Animals will send you an order form and a directory of participating veterinarians nationwide. You pay Friends of Animals for a certificate which you then take to a participating vet.
• Muffin’s Connection sells low-cost certificates (male cat , $50; female cat, $65; male dog, $65; female dog ,$85) to people living in NY (state and city) only. A certificate covers an examination, anesthesia, surgery and suture removal, if needed. The certificate does not include: shots, antibiotics, pain management, etc. Check with the vet before the appointment and ask about additional fees.