County to pay portion of pet service costs

NEW LENOX – Show your cat or dog some extra love this month by having it spayed or neutered – and save some money doing it.

This month, Will County Animal Control will cover $40 of the cost of the operation for up to two animals per household for pet owners who live within the county limits and go to a participating Will County veterinary clinic.

“Last year’s spay and neuter program was a great success,” Will County Executive Larry Walsh said. “Will County Animal Control reimbursed participating veterinary clinics for altering 1,025 pets. This year, we’re hoping for an increase in participation over 2011.

“It’s appropriate that in this month we celebrate love, we remember the cats and dogs that are important to our families.”

To be eligible for the $40 off a spay or neuter, pet owners must show proof of residence in Will County and pets must be registered with Will County Animal Control and reside with the owner. Proof of current certificate of rabies vaccination must be provided on the day of surgery and the pets must also have a Will County rabies registration tag. (Rabies vaccination and tag purchase can be purchased the day of surgery).

The surgery must take place by Wednesday, Feb. 29. Pet owners should call the veterinary office prior to surgery to find out if that office is participating to ensure they will receive the discount.

In 2006, the Illinois General Assembly passed a law that requires owners of non-neutered pets to pay a $10 differential for their pets’ tags.

That money is used for the county’s month-long program.

Will County Animal Control is under the county executive’s office and is led by Dr. L.P Schild. For additional information about this program, call (815) 724-1521.