Lack of money is no longer a valid reason for failing to have a dog or cat spayed or neutered. A growing number of organizations are offering low-cost and even no-cost spay/neuter services to those who cannot afford to pay the full cost of the surgery. Far too many dogs and cats are killed in shelters each year because there are not enough homes for them, and preventing their birth is the most important step in reducing that number.

Atlanta Animal Rescue Friends, Inc. (AARF) recently introduced Casper’s Fund, a new and innovative program to provide free or subsidized spays and neuters to area residents in exchange for volunteer service with AARF. Casper’s Fund also assists participants in obtaining vaccinations, rabies shots, heartworm tests and FIV/FeLV tests at a reduced cost.

Participants will receive a $15 credit for each hour of volunteer service with AARF up to a maximum of $75. They will receive a certificate for the amount earned which can be used at the No More Homeless Pets Atlanta clinic, where it will more than cover the cost of the surgery, leaving a balance that can be applied to vaccinations or other services. If the pet owner prefers to use another veterinarian, AARF will reimburse the vet for the earned amount on receipt of an invoice and the Casper’s Fund certificate. The owner is responsible for the difference.

There are many ways in which people can participate in this program, and the administrator of Casper’s Fund will work with interested people to determine the best way in which each person can help. There is no income requirement for participation in Casper’s Fund, and AARF encourages anyone with an unaltered pet to apply. For information on Casper’s Fund, visit their website at www.caspersfund.org.

For a full listing of organizations offering low-cost spay/neuter surgery or assistance in obtaining the service, go to the S.P.O.T. Society website, www.spotsociety.org.