Cook County pet spay/neuter discount program returns

Cook County will again partner with private veterinarians to offer discounted spay and neuter services for pets in February, which is National Spay and Neuter Month.

The program provides discounts of up to $40 per procedure and is available for up to two pets per household. There are no coupons or bar codes to print, and no limitations on where the service can be performed.

"Just go to the veterinarian of your choice and ask for the Cook County discount," Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle said in a news release.

Veterinarians will surgically spay or neuter pets under general anesthetic, so the pets will feel no pain. To ensure eligibility for the program, veterinarians will confirm the animal is up to date on rabies shots and the owner is a Cook County resident. Veterinarians handle all paperwork associated with the discount, which will be applied at the point of service.

Last year, 5,568 animals were spayed or neutered under the program. Since fees for spaying or neutering vary by veterinarian, so can discounts.

Dr. Donna Alexander, administrator of Cook County's Department of Animal and Rabies Control said taxpayers saved $220,160 last year through the program. The county has offered the program with the Chicago Veterinary Medical Association since 2008.

For more information, visit the county's website, www.cookcountygov.com, then click "Agencies" and "Animal and Rabies Control."