Free Spay and Neuter Surgeries for Pet Families

Free spay and neuter surgeries will be given to 20 Colton pet owners during Colton's first Spay and Neuter event later this month. Colton City Councilman David Toro will be hosting the event Jan. 24 at Elizabeth Davis Park and is currently receiving interest forms from low income dog owners who would like to have their pets spayed or neutered. Forms may be picked up at Colton City Hall or by emailing dtoro@ci.colton.ca.us. "The hope is that we can continue to do this for free every month for the year for low income pet owners," said Toro, who has a passion for animals. He has worked in the past to advocate for the prevention of animals going to shelters in the area. "My goal for a while has been trying to keep animals out of the shelters. When you don't have your dogs spayed or neutered sometimes you can have unwanted litters of puppies who go into shelters and the rates of euthanasia can be high. (Spays and neuters) also help keep your pets healthy. I'm trying to do my part for Colton," Toro said. The first 20 residents to complete and turn in an interest form may have their dogs, up to five years old and weighing less than 40 pounds, spayed or neutered for free. Pets should be licensed in Colton. Pets not already licensed may be licensed for $9. Toro was able to bring the event to Colton with the help of the LA-based non-profit Shelter Transport Animal Rescue Team, known as START Rescue, which aims to address issues of pet overpopulation through transports, or rescuing pets from high-kill shelters, and spay and neuter surgeries. The organization committed $5,000 to the event, Toro said. Toro said he'll be working with residents and business leaders to bring the event to the city and said he hopes to continue holding these clinics every month throughout 2015. "We also hope eventually to provide shots and microchipping," said Toro. Those who fill out an interest form after the first 20 are received will be added to a waitlist for future events. Those with any questions may call the City Council office at 909-370-5060.