By JOYANNA LOVE/ Senior Staff Writer

Chilton County residents who receive government assistance now have a limited opportunity to get their pets spayed or neutered for free.

The opportunity is made possible by a SNIP-SMART PetSmart grant to the Alabama Spay Neuter Clinic.

According to a press release from the Human Society of Chilton County, the clinic chose Chilton County as one of the areas to qualify for receiving free services from the funds.

“We are so very appreciative,” Human Society of Chilton County stated in the release.

Those who receive disability, food stamps or WIC can take advantage of the opportunity by calling the Alabama Spay Neuter Clinic at 205-956-0012. A $5 deposit, which will be refunded after the surgery, is required to reserve a spot.

“The Clinic will be completing 3,000 surgeries free of charge — once 3,000 slots are filled by all those to whom the Clinic has extended an invitation, the opportunity will be closed,” according to the Human Society of Chilton County.

According to member Renee Helms, the clinic will tell those who qualify a date and time to have their animal at the Human Society of Chilton County. The Alabama Spay Neuter Clinic will transport pets from the shelter and transport them to the clinic.

Proof of receiving government assistance will be required when residents bring their pets for transport.

“Up to three pets per household can be spayed or neutered free of charge,” the release stated.

Residents will also be charged $16 for pets needing a rabies shot.

Human Society of Chilton County supports ongoing efforts for pet owners to have their pets spayed or neutered as a way to limit the number of unwanted pets being brought to the shelter.