Residents of Organ, La Mesa and the Village of Doña Ana can schedule free surgeries for eligible dogs and cats

Organ Mountain News report

LAS CRUCES - Doña Ana County Animal Control will offer free spay and neuter clinics in Organ, La Mesa and the Village of Doña Ana beginning July 20.

The clinics are intended to reduce animal overpopulation and the number of pets entering local shelters.

Each clinic will operate from 6 a.m. to noon on the following dates:

• Organ: July 20-22
• La Mesa: July 27-29
• Village of Doña Ana: Aug. 3-5

Participation is limited to residents of the unincorporated community where each clinic is being held.

Appointments must be scheduled online. Each client may schedule one pet per day.

Pet owners must arrive 15 minutes before their appointments, follow all pre-surgery instructions and properly restrain their animals. Dogs must be leashed and cats must be transported in secure carriers.

Vaccination records must be uploaded through the county’s online portal. Pets must be fully vaccinated at least two weeks before surgery and must be between 6 months and 2 years old.

Owners must also bring an e-collar for each pet and should expect animals to remain at the clinic for several hours.

Animal Control may decline surgery if a pet:

• Is sick, injured or has an infection
• Is not fully vaccinated
• Is younger than 6 months or older than 2 years
• Is pregnant, nursing or in heat
• Is obese for its breed or size
• Weighs less than 5 pounds or more than 40 pounds
• Has fleas or ticks
• Displays aggressive behavior or is feral
• Is a Doberman because of blood-clotting concerns
• Is a flat-faced breed, including a pug, bulldog, boxer or Pekingese, because of increased breathing risks.
• Does not have an e-collar available for use after surgery

Residents can schedule appointments through the county’s online portal or visit DonaAna.gov for more information.