Mailman's Mutts announces free May spay/neuter program; council agrees to explore city support

At the May 5 Gadsden City Council meeting, Arlene Myers of Mailman's Mutts outlined a partnership with Alabama Spay & Neuter to offer free spay/neuter surgeries and rabies vaccinations in May for Etowah County residents receiving government assistance. Myers said 72 reservations were already made and described efforts to subsidize tickets year-round, noting the organization covers differences in cost for many residents.

Mayor Ford and council members discussed whether the city could provide discretionary funds. The city attorney explained legal limits on direct payments to private individuals but said the city can sponsor a vendor or clinic and pay the vendor directly. Council members suggested alternatives such as sponsoring transport or rabies shots, and Mayor Ford offered $1,000 and asked staff to work with Mailman's Mutts to coordinate funding and logistics.

Myers said the group hopes to sustain the free program into June if donations remain, and they are exploring an August clinic at the Gadsden Mall parking lot. Council members encouraged residents who qualify to take advantage of the program and asked staff to follow up on practical sponsorship options.

“Anybody on government assistance in the month of May can have their cats or dogs spay or neutered at Alabama Spay and Neuter for free,” Myers said. City staff and council agreed to meet and refine how the city can assist without violating restrictions on direct payments to individuals.