Frequently Asked Questions about snip, snip, hooray!

How old does my dog/cat need to be to receive a spay or neuter surgery?

Age restrictions vary by clinics, the youngest possible age any of our clinics will schedule is 12 weeks with additional weight requirements. All participating clinics will take kittens and puppies 16 weeks and older.

The age limit and requirements for older dogs and cats varies by clinic as well, some will not accept animals past 5 years of age and others will, but additional bloodwork will be required.

Does my dog need to be up to date on any vaccinations?

All animals must be up to date on rabies vaccinations to be spayed or neutered. You will be asked to provide proof of the vaccination in your application. If your animal is not up to date, any of our participating clinics will give the vaccination the same day and this year, rabies vaccinations will be covered by CARE for participants.

All other vaccinations are optional and costs vary by clinic. If you are interested in having other annual vaccinations done at the same time as the spay or neuter procedure, please let us know on your application.

My dog/cat is pregnate/in heat, can they still be spayed?

Yes, both dogs and cats can be spayed while pregnant and in heat.  Additional fees may be incurred. Please note the following.

• Pregnant dogs or cats will have a larger incision site which can mean more discomfort post-operation.  Many animals may also still lactate or nest afterwards.

• Females spayed while in heat will not stop acting like they are in heat immediately after a spay. Therefore, it is important to keep them away from males until the heat has subsided, even post-surgery.

Can I get my dog/cat that just gave birth spayed?

Generally you should wait roughly two weeks after the puppies or kittens have been weaned to spay a pet that has given birth.  In total, this can be 3-4 months for most dogs and cats.

Do i qualify for a free spay/neuter procedure if i make more than $60,000 a year?

CARE’s voucher program is limited to those making $60,000 or less a year. Sometimes this threshold may even be lower depending on voucher/fund availability. Many low-cost spay/neuter clinics have income requirements as well. However, we also recognize that many factors impact an individual’s ability to afford a sterilization procedure for their pet. Therefore, Snip, Snip, Hooray! does not have an income requirement, though applicants will be required to note their income range on the application.

We do ask that applicants be mindful of the fact that our funds for this event are limited and the demand is great. Please do not commit to a procedure if you are not certain you want to go through with it for your pet or if you are reasonably able to afford it without assistance. Breeders, shelters, and rescues will not be approved.

When and where will my dog/cat need to be dropped off and picked up?

You will be responsible for dropping off and picking up your dog or cat. We will not cover the cost of a make-up procedure for any animal not dropped off on time at the correct location.

The CARE office will provide the address and drop-off/pick-up times for your scheduled clinic. Most clinics do drop-off between 7:30 AM and 8:30 AM and pick-up between 4:00 PM and 5:00 PM.

Do I have to live in Little Rock to qualify?

No, any Arkansas resident may apply for either Snip, Snip, Hooray or our voucher program. However, it is your responsibility to transport your pet to and from the clinic on their scheduled day. Please plan accordingly.