Costs for the standard spay/neuter procedure are covered by the program, while costs for pain medication, cones or anything beyond the standard procedure are the owner’s expense. Proof of residency and pet ownership is required, and only Palmdale residents may sign up for the program.
The program, approved at the April 6, 2022, City Council meeting, is funded through Measure AV, and is being administered by nonprofit Karma Rescue. Palmdale residents are invited to take advantage of the program, which has already resulted in the spaying/neutering of 22 dogs, five domestic cats, and five feral cats in June.
“We have given our community members a way to help us solve the problem and we hope that with this spay and neuter program we’re going to see lower numbers as far as euthanasia and shelter intake, but particularly euthanasia,” Palmdale Councilmember Austin Bishop said at a press conference Wednesday. “If we can keep unwanted litters from happening, we can reduce the number of unwanted and unadoptable animals.”
“We look forward to this wonderful plan and amazing collaboration that sets a high standard for other communities and cities to follow,” said Monica Wylie, Karma Rescue executive director. “Proactive funding for programs like this is a new thing and will lead to a better, stronger and healthier community for all.”
“We were already doing this work in Palmdale and the surrounding areas,” said Shannon Montoya, spay/neuter director for Karma, who was accompanied by her rescue dog Phoebe. “Now we look forward to serving 100 families and their pets this July and reaching the program goal of 2,000 animals spayed/neutered.”
Karma Rescue is currently working with the Animal Medical Center of the Antelope Valley to complete the procedures, and Dr. David Lahijaniha and his staff were present for Wednesday’s press conference.
The program will also assist with altering feral or “community” cats.
“Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) is the only way to stabilize cat populations,” said Nadia Dickinson, community cat volunteer. “It is the humane, effective approach to community cats and is sound public policy. It’s wonderful to have this support.”
In July alone, 20 cats have been TNR into the community. So far this month, 14 dogs and two domestic cats have also benefitted from the program. For complete details and to make an appointment, visit www.karmarescue.org/palmdale or call 310-512-RUFF (7833).
[Information via news release from the city of Palmdale.]
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Graciela says
I would like to neuter my dog 5 months old
Alejandra F Gallina says
I a, looking for a Free Spay and Neuter for cats in the Antelope Valley area. Any suggestions please?
Shannon Montoya says
Hello Christine. If you have not done so already, please submit your request for assistance by visiting http://www.karmarescue.org/palmdale.
Barbara Nunez says
Need to get my dog neutered she’s a little one live in Palmdale please help my income I only have medical disability so it really isn’t much so I was wondering if I can qualify for now Noureen
Shannon Montoya says
Hello Barbara and apologies for the delayed reply. Please visit http://www.karmarescue.org/palmdale and you will be able to complete a form to request services.
Nothing is Free says
Don’t do it. Its the pounds way of getting you on their list and they will be knocking on your door looking for your dogs and cats registration every year, and five years after you report the animal dead, lost or no longer own. Oh and since they came to your home they charge like a $40+ dollar fine per animal. all those looking for multiple animals to get done. They only do one per house.
falkor says
is this true? you haver any more info on this??
Tracey says
What about those of us in Lancaster. Seems one-sided
Shannon Montoya says
This program is funded by Measure AV which the tax payers within the incorporated City of Palmdale paid for with increases to their taxes. It would be amazing if other cities did the same so that all pets and familes, who need assistance, can get help.
Ronyda says
Like humans I have one female Saint Bernard that I need fixed and three male dogs and I have some feral cats that I need spayed and neutered can you please help me with this I would greatly appreciate it it would be beyond appreciation if I could get some help with this.
Shannon Montoya says
Hello Ronyda. If you are within the incorporated City of Palmdale, please submit a request by visiting http://www.karmarescue.org/palmdale.
Christine anleu says
I want to spay my female cat and dog
And neuter my male cat
And my female kitten