Free microchipping and desexing for pets are available for pensioners and disability cardholders in the Western Australian suburbs of Armadale, Port Kennedy and surrounding suburbs.
A newspaper article about kittens in Perth being put down at a rate of 80 a day prompted cat lover Christine Yurovich to find a way to reduce euthanasia rates.
She began the Armadale Community Animal Rescue Group in 2012 and started a shelter to provide rescue and rehoming for abandoned and relinquished animals.
Two op shops were opened to support the shelter and finance free desexing of cats and the free microchipping of dogs and cats for those on a tight budget.
More than 1000 animals have been seen since the program started two years ago.
"Desexing a cat can cost between $260 and $320, and pensioners just can't afford that," Christine said. "Microchipping can cost around $60."
Christine, who has six cats herself, said people in need of the service can go to the Animal Welfare Op Shops in Gillam Drive, Kelmscott and Sunlight Drive, Port Kennedy and fill out a form.
"We use local vets so the money we raise stays in the area," she said. "People using the service are encouraged to make a small donation if they can afford it, or donate items to be sold in the Op Shop."
Volunteers at the shops or animal shelter are welcome. Foster carers are also encouraged. To adopt a pet, visit the shelter at 251 Railway Ave, Kelmscott.
Cat laws in WA require all cats that have reached six months of age to be microchipped, sterilised and registered with the local council.
Dogs must be microchipped and registered if they more than three months old.
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