In honor of National Spay Day (Feb. 23), the Orcas Animal Protection Society is offering free spay/neuter services to the kitties and dogs of Orcas on March 2.

A grant from the Bernice Barbour Foundation provides the funding to cover surgical costs with qualified volunteers providing the necessary pre- and post-operative care.

Participants in National Spay Day will also be given the opportunity to have their pet microchipped at the bargain price of $10. Microchipping involves injecting a tiny computer chip with a unique identification number under the skin of the pet. Microchipping is completely safe and can be performed on animals of any age. Owners can be quickly reunited with their lost pets through this permanent identification system.

Spaying and neutering are routine surgical procedures that not only prevent unwanted litters, but also keep animals healthier, more content and better behaved. Neutering eliminates most roaming and fighting, thus reducing the risk of injury and infections, as well as reducing aggression toward other animals. The neutered male will also be less likely to be affected by hormones that cause him to mark indoor and outdoor turf. Spaying your female pet makes her easier to live with by eliminating heat cycles and annoyance from roaming males. Spaying can eliminate a number of potential health problems, including tumors and uterine diseases.

For more information and to schedule an appointment for National Spay Day, call the Orcas Animal Shelter at 376-6777.