For Hometown News

ST. LUCIE COUNTY - The Humane Society of St. Lucie County received a grant from the Florida animal friend license plate program to provide assistance with reasonable spay/neuter costs for residents of St Lucie County.

Five hundred free spay/neuter surgeries will be available in conjunction with nominal, affordable wellness programs, which will include a physical screening exam at which time rabies and preventative disease vaccinations, as well as heartworm screening will be done.

If the dog or cat is deemed healthy enough to withstand surgery, a free surgery will be scheduled two weeks after wellness vaccinations. The two-week delay permits enough time for the positive effects of the preventative vaccinations to kick in and protect pets.

Proof of previous valid preventative vaccinations will be accepted if presented in writing at the time of the health screening.

The cost of the actual surgery will paid out of the grant. Support grants will be available on a case-by-case base for individuals or families in need of assistance for the wellness screening.

The goal is to further enhance healthy forever homes for pets and reduce the tragedy of pet overpopulation.

For further information call (772) 461-0687 Monday-Friday, from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. The Humane Society of St Lucie County is located at 100 Savannah Road in Fort Pierce.