VALDOSTA — The Georgia Department of Agriculture’s Dog and Cat Sterilization Program presented a $3,000 grant to the Lowndes County Animal Shelter to offer resources for pet owners to spay and neuter their pets.

Starting Nov. 1, the Lowndes County Animal Shelter will be distributing free spay and neuter vouchers exclusively for pitbulls and pitbull mixes, the county board of commissioners announced in a press release. These vouchers will be available to Lowndes County residents only and can be picked up at the Lowndes County Animal Shelter, 337 Gil Harbin Industrial Blvd. Voucher distribution hours are Monday through Saturday from noon to 3 p.m.

Program guidelines:

— Voucher Eligibility: Only pitbulls and pitbull mixes are eligible for vouchers.

— Residency Requirement: This program is open to Lowndes County residents only. Please bring a valid ID showing your current address.

— Rabies Vaccination Deposit: A $15 deposit will be required upon receiving your voucher to cover the cost of a rabies vaccination, administered at the time of surgery. We accept card, check, or exact cash.

— Distribution: Vouchers are limited and will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis. Only one voucher will be issued per household.

— Appointment and Transport Information: After receiving a voucher, recipients will be provided with instructions to schedule an appointment with a participating veterinarian in Thomasville. Please plan accordingly, as you will need to transport your pet to the scheduled appointment.

“We are excited to offer this opportunity to our community and look forward to making a difference in reducing pet overpopulation,” the county press release said.

For more information, please contact the Lowndes County Animal Shelter, 229-671-2760.