Chattanooga Humane Society Launches Low-Cost Spay/Neuter Clinic to Combat Animal Overpopulation
Graphic Courtesy of Humane Educational Society
In The Know with Gino…
Chattanooga’s Humane Educational Society (HES) has successfully completed its inaugural week of surgeries at their newly opened community low-cost spay and neuter clinic, marking a significant milestone in the organization’s efforts to address pet overpopulation and improve animal welfare in the region.
The shelter’s new facility aims to provide affordable veterinary services to pet owners across Hamilton County and beyond. By making spay and neuter procedures accessible, HES hopes to reduce the number of unwanted litters, cut down on stray animals, and alleviate the burden on local shelters.
Interim Executive Director Dr. Tai Federico expressed enthusiasm about the project’s progress, stating, “We’re excited to finally offer public spay and neuter services. This is a goal we have worked toward for many years, and it will make a meaningful difference for both pet owners and animals in our community.”
The clinic is open to all residents, regardless of their county of residence, emphasizing HES’s commitment to accessible animal care.
Veterinary Services Director Dr. Sarah Callahan underscored the importance of the initiative, noting that despite advancements in shelter design and care, the core issue remains: “Animal needs still surpass available resources. The most effective way to reduce shelter euthanasia is by preventing unwanted litters through social safety net programs like affordable spay and neuter services.”
In addition to surgeries, the clinic offers a range of low-cost veterinary services, including vaccinations, microchipping, heartworm testing for dogs, and FIV/FeLV testing for cats. Prices for these services are up to 75% lower than private veterinary practices in Tennessee, making essential care more accessible.
To assist pet owners facing financial barriers, HES has established the “Spay It Forward” fund, allowing community members to sponsor surgeries for pets in need through donations.
Appointments for the clinic are scheduled in advance, and pet owners can find more information about available services and pricing on the HES website at heschatt.org/spayandneuter.
With this new facility, Chattanooga’s Humane Educational Society hopes to foster a healthier, more responsible pet-owning community and reduce the number of animals entering shelters each year.
SOURCE: Chattanooga Pulse
