Pets Are Worth Saving, Incorporated, also known as PAWS of Chinook, has again collaborated with Spay Montana to offer a Spay/Neuter Clinic for low income households from August 21-22 at Harlem City Hall.

Because clinics like this can fill up fast, anyone interested in getting a pet spayed or neutered is encouraged to call the clinic line at 407-357-7172 to make an appointment or to sign-up. Spay/neuter slots will start at 8:00 a.m. each day and continue until both days are spent.

According to Alissa Hewitt, PAWS of Chinook President, signups are already underway. “This will be our last clinic of the year, and we don't want you to miss out,” she exclaimed.

Calling the clinic line is the only way to get on the list for a pet sterilization procedure. Although this service targets low income households, Hewitt encourages everyone to call.

When attending the clinic, Hewitt asks that pet owners plan accordingly. “All dogs must wear a collar and be on a leash, and all cats must be in a carrier,” she reported.

Made possible in part by Spay Montana, this clinic will also offer low-cost vaccinations. Annual vaccinations and rabies shots are $10 each, or both can be obtained for $15. Appointments are not necessary for vaccination-only clients since vaccines will be performed on a walk-up basis. The vaccination clinic will operate from 9:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. on both days. Microchipping will also be available at a cost of $20 per pet. Dogs as well as cats are welcome at this event.

“PAWS of Chinook is happy to partner with Spay Montana for the second time this year to bring Blaine County another free spay/neuter clinic. Harlem City Council was unanimous in its decision to allow PAWS to host the clinic in Harlem,” Hewitt stated.

Hewitt went on to add: “The combination of vaccinated, microchipped, and altered cats and dogs is a combination that leads to fewer unwanted litters, less disease, and a better chance of getting a lost pet back home.”

Volunteers are needed for this event, and experience is not required. Anyone interested in volunteering should call the shelter’s line (357-7172) or Hewitt’s phone (357-3316).

“PAWS is always looking for volunteers,” Hewitt said. “There are many facets to volunteering. Everyone has a strength that is important within our organization, and we are delighted to see our family grow.”

For example, Treasurer Brenda Jones and her daughters started volunteering for PAWS in 2020. They claim to enjoy the time they spend together as kennel attendants, caregivers, fundraisers, and event staff. Vice President Amy Jones has found creative ways to raise funds and has discovered a whole new world in rescue that allows her to learn, help, and give. Secretary Linsey Adair and her sons see the importance of volunteers of all ages to learn about shelters, adoption, and everything it takes to participate in these.

“Although this is a free clinic targeting low income households, donations are very much appreciated to cover expenses. We would like to thank the Harlem Civic Association for providing meals for the veterinarians and volunteers for this event,” Hewitt concluded.