The overpopulation of dogs and cats is the biggest issue facing animal control agencies across the country. Did you know that one mating pair of cats can be responsible for 12 offspring in one year? Those 12 can produce 66 cats in two years, which leads to 516 cats in three years, 3,400 cats in four years  420,000 cats in seven years and 90 million cats in ten years.

Considering this example, it's easy to understand why all the animals adopted from the shelter must be sterilized.  There are also many health benefits associated with spaying and neutering:

• Eliminates the animal's desire to seek out a mate and thus reduces the risks associated with free-roaming animals (hit by car, fighting with other animals).

• For females- eliminates the problem of uterine infections that are quite common as pets age and decreases the possibility of mammary tumors.

• For males- reduces the risk of prostate problems and eliminates the possibility of testicular cancer as the animal ages.

To help make this service available, the city contracts with the Humane Society of Charlotte to operate a low cost spay/neuter clinic.  The clinic provides service by appointment only.  Your pet must be at least four months old and in good general health.  Current vaccinations are also required.

The fees are $50.00 for dogs, $40.00 for female cats and $30.00 for male cats.  We hope these low fees encourage pet owners to have their animals sterilized.  Pet licenses are also discounted for sterile animals- the regular $30.00 license fee is reduced to just $10.00.

For more information, or to schedule an appointment for your pet, call the Spay/Neuter Clinic at (704) 333-4130. The clinic is located at 2646 Toomey Avenue in Charlotte. Their hours are from 10:00am to 5:00 pm, Monday through Friday.