Free spay clinic for South Bay dogs

Increases in the chihuahua and pit bull populations have led the Chula Vista city government to offer a free spaying clinic specifically for South Bay owners of those breeds of dogs.

“A serious pet-overcrowding issue led us to bring this out to the community,” according to Anne Steinberger, spokesperson for the Chula Vista city manager’s office.

The South County has a big problem with abandoned dogs, overcrowded shelters, and animals running free on the street, Steinberger said, and these kinds of clinics “really cut down on the overpopulation of pets. You don’t have as many incidents."

The clinic, which can accommodate 10 pit bulls and 15 chihuahuas, will be held at the Chula Vista Animal Care Facility (CVACF) on Friday, January 17, from 7 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. A grant from the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) made the clinic possible.

"We cover a lot of territory in South County," Steinberger noted, as pet owners from Chula Vista, National City, Imperial Beach, or Lemon Grove can register at the CVACF, 130 Beyer Way, for the free clinic. To make a reservation, dog owners must visit the shelter in person from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. today, January 16.

Steinberger pointed out that Chula Vista also has a mobile spaying service. "The spay shuttle is now two years old," she said.