C.A.R.E.4Paws hosts free spay and neuter clinic for local families

With the cost of veterinary care going up, two local agencies are teaming up to reduce shelter overcrowding on the Central Coast.

C.A.R.E.4Paws and Santa Barbara County Animal Services (SBCAS) hosted a Spayathon and Walk-in Pet Wellness Clinic on Sunday at the SBCAS shelter in Santa Maria.

Four veterinary teams performed dozens of spay and neuter surgeries for both cats and dogs at no cost.

C.A.R.E.4Paws also offered low-cost vaccines, flea treatment, deworming medication, and nail trims for dogs and cats, along with free microchipping.

Organizers say two matching grant challenges from the John J. and Frank Sparacio Foundation and local nonprofit ResQcats made the event possible.

Donations given by families at the Spayathon were reportedly matched dollar for dollar by the organization