Healthy Start Program offers free spay & neuter and more in select neighborhoods

A Chicago non-profit is stepping up to the plate to help pet families in several neighborhoods get a healthy start in 2013. Pets Are Like Family (PALF) is partnering with Tree House Humane Society’s MacLean Spay/Neuter Clinic to provide vaccinations and spay or neutering to qualifying families.

“Families have to live in our targeted neighborhoods of Humboldt Park, Logan Square, Hermosa and Belmont Cragin,” says Alicia Obando, founder of PALF. “Families sign up as a client with PALF, which includes a home visit to assess the needs of the families regarding their pets. They have access to the supplies from the pet pantry and can also utilize the other resources and referrals that PALF has to offer.”

During February, Tree House is offering discounted spay and neuter services as part of National Spay and Neuter Month during February at their Bucktown Branch at 1629 North Ashland.

• Free packages for feral/free roaming cats.
• For individuals receiving public assistance, surgeries for pet male cats are free, female pet cats are $13, male pet dogs are $27 and female pet dogs are $55.
• For the general public, surgeries for male pet cats are $10, female pet cats are $35, male pet dogs are $55 and female pet dogs are 95. All dogs for any package must be less than 50 pounds.

PALF was cover all the fees while supplies last for qualifying families. You need to either have a valid Cook County Rabies tag for your pet to participate or must get your pet vaccinated that day. Take advantage by calling 312-PALF-315 (312-725-3315).

PALF is a non-profit that reaches out to families in Chicago neighborhoods that lack the resources needed at times for proper pet care. The organization offers Pet 101 Community Workshops, a pet food pantry, counseling services and other programs. PALF services are offered in English, Spanish and has access to a Polish Interpreter.

Learn more about their programs online and follow them on Facebook.

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