Many people ask their veterinarian to spay or neuter their pet. If you have trouble affording the fee, consider these steps:

1. Call your local animal shelter. They may operate a local clinic or know of a clinic that offers subsidized services. They may also offer vouchers to have your pet spayed or neutered at a lower cost by local, private veterinarians. You can find your shelter by searching online at www.Pets911.com. You can also look in your phone book. Animal shelters are called by a variety of names, so check in the Yellow Pages under listings such as "animal shelter," "humane society," or "animal control."

2. Call SPAY/USA. SPAY/USA is a national spay/neuter referral network that may be able to direct you to subsidized spay/neuter clinics in your area. SPAY/USA can be reached at 1-800-248-SPAY (1-800-248-7729) or you can visit them online at www.spayusa.org.

3. Call your veterinarian. Your veterinarian may be able to work out special financing options for you. Remember that, even if you pay full price for the procedures, spaying or neutering is a one-time cost with a lifetime of benefits. Spaying or neutering your pet not only helps curb pet overpopulation, but also reduces your pet's risk of succumbing to many later health problems. It remains one of the best bargains in animal health care.

4. Visit the Pets 911 website. Pets 911 is an online resource for pet guardians and potential pet guardians. This online database can provide you with information on veterinarians, special clinics, and other spay/neuter resources in your area.