EPCSO helps pay for spay, neuter services

Pet overpopulation is a chronic problem in El Paso County.

It isn’t uncommon to come across stray dogs and cats in the outlying areas of the county. And public and privately run shelters recently joined up to offer pets for adoption at half the price to move pets out of cages and into homes.

Now, the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office is trying to help curb the problem.

The sheriff’s office announced nearly three weeks ago it received funding from the Texas Department of State Health Services to pay for spay and neuter surgeries for families who qualify.

Applicants only need to live in El Paso County and meet financial qualifications.

“We are trying to, most importantly, avoid more animals being killed or euthanized because of them not having a home,” said sheriff’s office spokeswoman Angelica Becerra.

Becerra said since the announcement, quite a few people have applied for the grant funding. One of the applicants was Carlos Bosquez. Bosquez owns three small dogs, and was hoping to spay Carolina, a Chihuahua.

“Well, for me, it’s important because I don’t want too many dogs. With the three I have, it’s enough,” said Bosquez.

To apply, complete the application and submit it to mhebeker@epcounty.com. Call 538-2052 for more information.