140 pets received free spay, neuter services provided by City of Weslaco

WESLACO, Texas (ValleyCentral) — The City of Weslaco hosted a free spay and neuter clinic for resident's pets to help with animal overpopulation in the Rio Grande Valley.

The free clinic was held Tuesday morning at Elks Lodge, located at 201 S. Border Avenue where they performed 140 surgeries free of charge.

"I think it is an incredible program, that we can replicate in other parts of the Rio Grande Valley and the State," said Vicente Gonzalez, U.S. Congressman for the 34th District. "We have a high kill rate and we need to work on that, we need to have a zero kill rate and it begins by bringing the funding, leaders, municipalities, and counties that take the initiative to do what's been done in the city."

Adrian Gonzalez, Mayor of the City of Weslaco, said it is important to provide spay and neuter services for animals to help with the issue of overpopulation.

"We are trying to work together with our leaders to find a solution to these problems, make sure we take care of our furry friends and this is just the first step moving forward," Mayor Gonzalez said.

Elizabeth Gomez, spokesperson for Best Friends Animal Society, stated they are excited to work with the City of Weslaco and Mayor Gonzalez to help decrease the overpopulation issue across the Valley.

"We have to be responsible with our animals and make sure we provide them with the best care as well, these are like our babies," Mayor Gonzalez added. "The City of Weslaco wanted to be able to provide this service to all our citizens and find a solution to the overpopulation problem so no animal gets killed."

Gomez told ValleyCentral, she also recommends pet owners microchip or tag their pets so that in case of an emergency, where your pet runs away or gets lost, a microchip can help bring them back home.