For the 20th anniversary of World Spay Day on February 25, Regional Animal Services of King County (RASKC) and Pasado’s Safe Haven will offer $10 spay and neuter services for cats and dogs in south King County.

“Spaying and neutering is an effective way to save animals’ lives,” said RASKC Manager Dr. Gene Mueller. “Not only do fixed pets live longer, healthier lives, but spaying and neutering prevents unwanted animals from ending up in shelters.”

In addition to discounted spaying and neutering in honor of World Spay Day, RASKC and Pasado’s will offer free microchipping with each surgery. The microchips are paid for by donations to the RASKC Benefit Bequest Fund, which provides funding for programs and services that help animals.

“Many pet owners don’t realize that cats can become pregnant when they’re just four months old, and dogs as young as six months old,” said Jenny Fraley, Director of Homeless Prevention Initiatives at Pasado’s Safe Haven. “Spaying or neutering your beloved companion can be such a simple solution to not only the pet overpopulation crisis, but a number of other issues such as behavior problems or testicular or mammary cancer.”

Space is limited for the $10 spay/neuter surgeries, and slots are available on a first-come, first-served basis starting at 7:30 a.m. on Feb. 25.

Pet owners interested in the World Spay Day special are encouraged to call Pasado’s at 206-300-7217 or go to www.pasadosafehaven.org to learn more, including what they need to do to prepare their cat or dog for surgery.

All surgeries will take place at Pasado’s Mobile Spay Station, currently parked at the King County Pet Adoption Center, 21615 64th Ave. S. in Kent.

For more information about RASKC, visit www.kingcounty.gov/pets. To learn more about Pasado’s Safe Haven, log on to www.pasadosafehaven.org.