ROCKWOOD, Tenn. — A new low-cost spay and neuter clinic opened next door to the Roane County Animal Shelter in Rockwood Monday morning.
The center is a registered nonprofit and can receive grants that will offset the cost of surgeries for local pet owners.
The impact of the clinic will be felt around the entire community, said Director of Roane County Animal Shelter Stacey Whittenberg.
"It's really going to make a huge impact for the community," Whittenberg said. "As far as reducing the strays running around neighborhoods, the strays in unwanted litters ... It's going to improve the overall lives of all the pets and pet owners."
Spay and neuter costs at the clinic could be as low as $50, Crystal Holguin said. Holguin is the owner of Claws and Paws 4 a Cause, the company that will be using the space and performing the surgeries.
Spay and neuter surgeries can cost hundreds of dollars at a traditional veterinary office. Whittenberg said she hopes the new clinic will encourage people to get their pets fixed, as well as keep stray numbers down.
Claws and Paws 4 a Cause spayed and neutered about 6,000 animals at their various East Tennessee locations last year, Holguin said.
"I think we make a big impact," she said. "I just think it takes time."