Chattanooga, August 12, 2025
News Summary
The Humane Educational Society in Chattanooga has launched a low-cost spay/neuter clinic aimed at combatting pet overpopulation. Offering services up to 75% cheaper than private practices, the clinic includes vaccinations, microchipping, and testing. The initiative also features the ‘Spay It Forward’ fund to assist families in need, showcasing a commitment to improving animal welfare in the community.
Chattanooga Launches Low-Cost Spay/Neuter Clinic to Address Pet Overpopulation
Chattanooga’s Humane Educational Society (HES) has successfully completed its first week of surgeries at a newly opened low-cost community spay/neuter clinic. The clinic, designed to reduce the number of unwanted litters and stray animals, aims to alleviate the pressure on local shelters in the Hamilton County area.
Interim Executive Director Dr. Tai Federico highlighted the significance of this clinic as a major advancement for the organization. The initiative promises affordable spay and neuter surgical options for all residents, regardless of their county of residence, making it widely accessible to the community.
Dr. Sarah Callahan, who serves as the Director of Veterinary Services at HES, underscored the critical role spay and neuter services play in addressing the ongoing issue of animal overpopulation. By providing these services, HES aims to prevent shelters from having to resort to euthanasia, promoting a healthier situation for animals by keeping them in permanent homes.
Key Features of the Clinic
In addition to spay and neuter surgeries, the new clinic offers a variety of low-cost veterinary services including:
- Vaccinations
- Microchipping
- Heartworm testing for dogs
- FIV/FeLV testing for cats
These services are provided at prices that are reportedly up to 75% lower than those found at private veterinary practices in Tennessee, making them more affordable for families and pet owners in need.
Support for Families in Need
To support community members facing financial constraints, HES has initiated a “Spay It Forward” fund. This program allows community members to sponsor surgeries for pets whose owners are unable to pay for the procedures themselves. This initiative underscores HES’s dedication to ensuring that pets receive necessary care without adding financial strain on their owners.
Appointments are required for all services at the clinic, and further details can be accessed through HES’s official website.
Background on the Humane Educational Society
This clinic is part of the broader strategy employed by HES to promote responsible pet ownership and enhance animal welfare across Hamilton County and surrounding areas. By tackling pet overpopulation head-on through accessible spay and neuter services, HES seeks to drastically reduce the number of animals in shelters, improve their living conditions, and ultimately decrease the need for euthanasia.
As the clinic continues to operate, HES aims to build a healthier environment for pets and enhance the bonds between animals and their families within the community.
FAQ
What services does the low-cost spay/neuter clinic in Chattanooga offer?
The clinic offers spay and neuter surgeries, vaccinations, microchipping, heartworm testing for dogs, and FIV/FeLV testing for cats at significantly reduced prices.
How much do the services at the clinic cost compared to private veterinary practices?
The clinic’s prices are reported to be up to 75% lower than those of private veterinary practices in Tennessee.
How can families with financial barriers get help for their pets?
HES offers a “Spay It Forward” fund where community members can sponsor surgeries for pets in need, assisting families facing financial challenges.
Is an appointment necessary to access clinic services?
Yes, all services at the clinic are by appointment only. More information can be found on the Humane Educational Society’s website.
Key Features Chart
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Service Types | Spay/neuter surgeries, vaccinations, microchipping, heartworm testing, FIV/FeLV testing |
| Cost Comparison | Up to 75% lower than private veterinary practices |
| Financial Aid Options | “Spay It Forward” fund for pets in need |
| Appointment Requirement | Appointments are necessary for all services |
| Community Focus | Supporting responsible pet ownership and improving animal welfare |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Hits 96: Chattanooga Humane Society Launches Low-Cost Spay/Neuter Clinic
- Wikipedia: Animal Welfare
- Chattanooga Pulse: Humane Educational Society Launches New Low-Cost Spay/Neuter
- Google Search: Spay Neuter Clinics
- Times Free Press: Overcrowded McKamey Pauses Spay and Neuter
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Animal Shelter
- Chattanooga Pulse: Chattaneuter Strives to Make Spay and Neuter Services Affordable
- Google News: Spay Neuter Services
- WDEF: Walker County Launches New and Free Spay Neuter Voucher Program

Author: STAFF HERE CHATTANOOGA WRITER
The CHATTANOOGA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREChattanooga.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Chattanooga, Hamilton County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Riverbend Festival, Chattanooga Oktoberfest, and Moon River Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Chattanooga Area Chamber of Commerce and United Way of Greater Chattanooga, plus leading businesses in manufacturing, insurance, and utilities that power the local economy such as Volkswagen Chattanooga, BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee, and EPB. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREKnoxville.com, HEREMemphis.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.


