Pet lovers can help control the overpopulation of unwanted dogs and cats by having their animals spayed or neutered.

Dr. Ella Boyd, Ocean County public health coordinator, said, "The majority of pet owners are not breeders, so it makes sense to eliminate bringing unplanned kittens and puppies into the world."

To help reduce unwanted litters, the Ocean County Health Department, in cooperation with the VolunteerAuxiliary for Animal Shelters, will hold a series of lowcost spay/neuter clinics open to lower-income and moderate-income Ocean County residents.

"We realize that the full cost of spaying or neutering the family pet can be a burden on families with limited incomes," Boyd said. "These clinics can help a family of modest means meet the expense of such a service."

The cost to a family meeting income eligibility is $30 for cats and $45 for dogs (40 pounds or less). This includes a rabies vaccination as well as the spay/neuter procedure. Household income eligibility can be up to 185 percent of the federal poverty level, currently $18,889 for a single person household or $38,203 for a family of four.

Income verification is necessary. For household size not listed and for additional information, pet owners should call (732) 657-8086. A clinic will be held on May 5 in amobile surgical van that will be placed in the parking lot of the American Veterans (AMVETS) Hall, Route 571, 1 mile north of Hope Chapel Road, Jackson. Appointments are necessary. For an appointment, call the Northern Ocean County Animal Shelter at (732) 657-8086.