Bono, AR – Jonesboro Right Now – In an effort to address a growing pet overpopulation crisis and provide affordable veterinary care, Marked Tree Animal Rescue is hosting a low-cost spay and neuter clinic in Bono next week.
The clinic, which will operate out of a mobile veterinary unit at the Bono Community Center at 100 Woodland Trails, runs Aug. 11 to Aug. 13.
The schedule is designated by species, with Aug. 11 reserved for dogs, Aug. 12 for both dogs and cats, and Aug. 13 strictly for cats. Surgeries begin each day at 7:30 a.m. and continue until the last animal is treated.
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Rhonda Davis, who serves as the chief volunteer and runs the rescue with her husband, emphasized that the clinic’s goal is to make essential veterinary care accessible to everyone.
“Sometimes people love animals, they just don’t have money at the end of the day, and then what do you do with overpopulation?” she said. “If we can control the overpopulation, that will help with some of the problems with dumping”.
Several options are offered for both cats and dogs, including surgeries, vaccines, and testing. Prices range from $10 to $160.
To qualify for surgery, Davis said puppies must be at least three months old. Kittens must be three months old and weigh at least three pounds. The clinic also accepts pregnant animals, provided the veterinarian deems the surgery safe. Rabies vaccinations can be administered during the procedure, ensuring pets receive necessary shots while under anesthesia.
While appointments are filling up quickly, residents can still register online by clicking here.
If capacity is reached, the rescue will maintain a waitlist and guarantee they will work to secure spots for everyone in future clinics. Davis noted that this is not a standalone vaccine clinic, and the rescue is working to fill that need in the future.
Davis added that if there are any issues with a pet that the clinic should consider such as it being aggressive or already pregnant, then the resident can note that in the registration form or tell the clinic staff either beforehand or when they arrive.
For more information, email Davis at rhonda@markedtreeanimalrescue.com. You can also email markedtreerescue@gmail.com or call 870-353-9305.
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