Email  Print

Free veterinary clinic Sunday at La Luz

Every 8 seconds, a cat or dog is euthanized in America, according to the United States Humane Society. In an effort to combat that startling statistic, two Sonoma County organizations, Pets Lifeline and Compassion Without Borders, have teamed up to help control the unwanted pet population in Sonoma Valley by offering free spay and neuter services, along with other basic wellness care.

The next free clinic takes place from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. this Sunday, Feb. 3, at La Luz Center, 17560 Greger St. “La Luz provides us with the site and lets their clients know we’re coming,” said Brenda Serrano, who coordinates the program for Compassion Without Borders. “We really wanted to focus on the Springs and the lower economic areas of Sonoma Valley.”

Compassion Without Borders has been hosting its free pet wellness clinic on the first Sunday of each month since July, and has treated more than 250 animals in that time. Hundreds more are treated by Pets Lifeline, which hosts its low-cost spay and neuter clinic on the third Sunday of each month at its shelter at 19686 Eighth St. E.

“We’re seeing quite a lot of animals, from puppies to dogs over 9 years old,” Serrano said “It’s amazing how many people need the service.”

Every clinic, Compassion Without Borders spays and neuters up to 20 cats and dogs, helping to control the Valley’s pet population. Those looking to have their pet fixed must register ahead of time. This Sunday’s event is full, but those interested can call Pets Lifeline at 996-4577, ext. 100 (for Spanish, call 939-8465), to register for a future clinic.

“We also do physical exams and make sure everything is functioning,” Serrano said.

Veterinarians and a team of vet techs volunteer their time to keep costs down at the event while still offering a wide variety of services. Patrons of the clinic can have their cat or dog checked for general health concerns, get flea and tick medication and even have their pets’ nails clipped – all for free.

“If it’s something simple, such as ear mites which are quite common, we’ll give them a remedy,” Serrano said, explaining that more significant health issues will be referred to a veterinarian for further care.

Both Pets Lifeline and Compassion Without Borders rely on donations from the community to continue offering these critical services in Sonoma Valley.

To contribute or learn more about Compassion Without Borders, go to cwob.org; or Pets Lifeline at petslifeline.org.