Some Habersham dogs eligible for low-cost spay/neuter

CLARKESVILLE - Select Habersham County dog owners can apply now to get low-cost spay/neuter for their animals.

Habersham County Animal Care and Control will hold its first-ever targeted spay/neuter program to help lower the population of unwanted litters of puppies. The program is made possible by a grant from the ASPCA.

To be eligible, dogs and their owners must reside in the defined target area, which is centered at the intersection of Georgia Highway 197 North and Alec Mountain Road near Clarkesville. The target area includes a three-mile radius around that point.

Additionally, dogs must meet age, weight, health and temperament requirements. Proof of residency in the target area is required.

Dogs must be at least 8 months old and weigh at least three pounds and no more than 70 pounds. No pregnant females, animals with hernias or cryptorchid animals. Female dogs most be scheduled one month post-nursing for surgery.

The cost of surgery will be $25 per dog, plus an additional $5 per dog if the owner doesn't have a certificate of current rabies vaccination from a veterinarian.

There is a limit of three dogs per household.

Space is limited, and appointments must be kept or will be forfeited. Payment is due prior to service.

Cash, checks and credit/debit cards are accepted, though there is a small surcharge for using debit/credit cards.

According to Madi Hawkins, animal control officer III, spots for the low-cost surgery have been slow to fill. Dog owners in the target area are encouraged to contact the animal shelter to schedule the procedures.

Applications and details are available at the Habersham County Animal Shelter, 4231-B Toccoa Highway, Clarkesville. For more information, call (706) 839-0195.