CLAY COUNTY – Clay County Animal Services is now offering free and low-cost spay and neuter dog surgeries and free rabies vaccinations for income-eligible Clay County households, thanks to the Florida Animal Friends Specialty License Plate Program.

To apply for spay and neuter surgeries, call Clay County Community Services at (904) 529-4256, and staff members will guide applicants through the income eligibility requirements.

Spayed and neutered pets can live longer, healthier lives, and the surgery can alleviate the overpopulation of animals in our communities.

Now, thanks to a grant from Florida Animal Friends, households earning less than $70,000 annually can qualify for low-cost, or in some cases no-cost, spay and neuter surgery and free rabies vaccinations for their family dogs.

To apply for spay and neuter surgeries under this grant, call Clay County Community Services at (904) 529-4256. Community services staff will guide applicants through the income eligibility requirements and coordinate with Animal Services to schedule their surgery appointment. Questions can be directed to ClayCares@ClayCountygov.com.

Animal Services Shelter Veterinarian Dr. Jennifer Broadhurst said, “Spayed and neutered pets live longer healthier lives. Neutered dogs are also less likely to roam, bite, or get into fights with other dogs.”

Preventing unwanted litters of puppies and kittens is also better for the community. “Communities spend millions of dollars to control unwanted animals and animal shelters are already overburdened with a surplus of animals. Irresponsible breeding also contributes to the problem of dog bites and attacks,” said Animal Services Director Ernest Hagen. “The health and community benefits of spaying and neutering dogs and cats are well-known, and thanks to the Florida Animal Friends’ Specialty License Plate Program, we now have the ability to further serve our residents.”

If you would like to support the life-saving efforts of Florida Animal Friends, purchase a Florida Animal Friend specialty license plate and $25 goes directly to fund organizations that offer free or low-cost spay and neuter services in Florida, like Clay County Animal Services. By purchasing the plate or donating to show your support, you are helping animal welfare organizations to become one step closer to ensuring that all animals can have a safe, happy, and loving home. Supporters like you are our best defense against Florida pet overpopulation. Purchases can be made online, by mail, or in person at the tax collector’s office. For more information or to order a plate, Visit Florida Animal Friend specialty license plate.