Two Miami-Dade animal groups say their free and low-cost spay and neuter clinic is making strides to help reduce pet overpopulation.
The Humane Society of Greater Miami and Miami-Dade Animal Services started offering free spay/neuter surgeries in February, thanks to funding from the county. Residents who provide proof of government assistance are eligible to have their pets sterilized and vaccinated for rabies for free. In addition to the surgeries, cats will receive a free FVRCP vaccine and gos receive a free DHPP vaccine.
The program is part of the county's effort to become a no-kill community, with the goal of reducing the number of homeless cats and dogs roaming the streets and entering local animal shelters. Organizers say the Miami-Dade County Community Spay Neuter Clinic has seen numerous low-income residents take advantage of the program.
“Making spay/neuter surgery and pet vaccines affordable and accessible is a key component to increasing community involvement and to the success of the life-saving services and programs like the ones offered by the Miami-Dade County Community Spay Neuter Clinic,” said Alex Muñoz, Director of Miami-Dade Animal Services.
People can also bring in community cats for surgery. According to the clinic, one woman has brought in nearly 20 cats from her neighborhood for sterilization.
“We are delighted to have the opportunity to be involved with this project that is so beneficial to many of our neighbors.” says Laurie Hoffman, Executive Director at the Humane Society of Greater Miami. “It’s gratifying to know that we can make a difference in the community by promising a future with significantly less cats and dogs walking about the streets without a home.”
The Miami-Dade County Community Spay Neuter Clinic is located at 10700 Southwest 211th Street in Cutler Bay. For more information on program, call (305) 749-1854, or visit the Humane Society's website.
