ACS is joining the national observance of Spay Day to emphasize the importance of spaying and neutering pets in reducing the number of unwanted animals. Nationwide, a half million pets have been spayed or neutered through the Spay Day USA program created by the Doris Day Animal Foundation.

All animals adopted from ACS are spayed or neutered before being released to their new homes. Since ACS began this mandatory program in January 2000, over 6,100 animals have been spayed or neutered. Through the generosity of area veterinarians, ACS will provide to adopting families this Saturday a Spay Day certificate good for free pet spay/neuter services. This certificate can be used for an existing family pet or can be shared with a friend. ACS Director Dr. Julie Ann Ryan Johnson believes the Spay Day program will benefit both pets and people. "We'll match people up with a veterinarian in their area, and anticipate that approximately 100 additional pets will be spayed or neutered through this effort," said Dr. Ryan Johnson. "Every pet spayed or neutered means fewer unwanted animals that are placed with a shelter for adoption." Spay/neuter certificates will be distributed while they last.

Individuals adopting pets on Spay Day will also receive a gift tin of "Pound Dog" all natural gourmet dog cookies or a bag of "Feline Pine" natural cat litter. Spay Day displays will feature information on the benefits of having pets spayed or neutered and an animal behaviorist will be on-site at the Animal Care Center to discuss pet behavior problems