CONYERS, Ga. – The Georgia Department of Agriculture has awarded to Rockdale County a $5,000 grant as part of its Dog and Cat Sterilization Program for free or low-cost spay/neuter services.

The Rockdale County Animal Care & Control Shelter is one of 41 state-licensed animal shelters and animal rescue organizations in Georgia to receive the grant. Rockdale County will use the funds to target areas with a high animal population and other animal-related issues.

Rockdale County Animal Care & Control is currently offering the program to residents of the Lakeview Estates community. The County plans to offer the program to residents of the Fieldstone View/Country Walk and Hi Roc communities at a later date if funds are available.

To schedule surgery for their dog or cat, Lakeview Estates residents must visit the Rockdale County Animal Care & Control Shelter, Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. – 6 p.m., at 1506 Rockbridge Road, Conyers, 30012. Residents must bring to the shelter a current utility bill or lease agreement to show proof of residency in Lakeview Estates. Georgia driver’s licenses will not be accepted.

“The Animal Shelter is grateful for the support of the state,” Animal Care & Control Shelter Manager CiJi Baker said. “This money will be used to reduce Rockdale’s homeless pet population, decrease the number of stray animals coming into the shelter and empower residents to become responsible pet owners.”

Once Lakeview Estates residents schedule a surgery date for their cat or dog, they will simply drop off and pick up their animal from the shelter on that scheduled date.In addition to the free spay/neuter services, the shelter is partnering with a local veterinarian to cover the costs of rabies vaccines, and antibiotics and pain medications that may be prescribed after the surgery.

For more information about the program, please call the Rockdale County Animal Care & Control Shelter at 770-278-8403.