PETS

FELINE FRENZY The Jax Humane Society’s bi-weekly spay and neuter drive gets community cats fixed for free. The goal for each session is 100. All cats must be brought in humane traps (one cat per trap), not carriers. 7 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 9, Jacksonville Humane Society, 8464 Beach Blvd., Southside, jaxhumane.org, free.

Even a capable canine columnist like me can  nd it di cult to make ends meet. So, I depend on my mom for most things:  lling my bowl with kibble, taking me to the vet for regular exams, and replacing my old squeaky squirrel with a new squeaky hedgehog. But not every pet is as fortunate. Hundreds of pets—from dogs and cats to birds and ferrets (and let’s not get started on reptiles)—end up abandoned on the streets, surrendered at shelters, or put into homeless situations when pet owners  nd caring for them di cult or impossible. Luckily, there are resources available for those who need help caring for their animals. PET FOOD ASSISTANCE Many animal shelters understand that pet owners struggle  nancially, and they o er pet food assistance through local food pantries to help ease the burden. e Jacksonville Humane Society manages and maintains a pet food pantry. Pet owners must provide proof that their pets are spayed/neutered to receive this service.  ere are no other eligibility requirements. e pantry is open 10 a.m.-noon Saturdays, JHS Warehouse, 1817 Foster Dr., Southside, jaxhumane.org. First Coast No More Homeless Pets’ Jacksonville Pet Food Bank o ers a one-month supply of cat or dog food to households with up to  ve cats and four dogs. All pets must be spayed or neutered. e distribution schedule varies based on supply. 464 Cassat Ave., Edgewood, fcnmhp.org. Meals on Wheels for Pets provides nutritious pet food for companion animals of homebound seniors in Nassau County. 17 S. Seventh St., Fernandina Beach, mow4petsnassau.com. LOW-COST VETERINARY CARE Pet medical care can be expensive. If your animal needs a medical procedure you can’t a ord, there are organizations that may be able to help. Local animal welfare groups and shelters oen oer low-cost vaccinations, spaying and neutering services and other routine care. JHS Animal Hospital provides a ordable, q uality care to the public, regardless of income status. 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Wednesday, 8 a.m.-4 p.m.  ursday, 8 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday, 8464 Beach Blvd., Southside, jaxhumane.org. First Coast No More Homeless Pets runs one of the largest spay and neuter clinics in the country and the largest safetynet veterinary hospital in the Southeast. 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday-Friday,6817 Norwood Ave., Norwood, fcnmhp.org. Saint Francis Animal Hospital provides comprehensive veterinary care at a lower cost. 8:30 a.m.-8 p.m. Monday, Tuesday &  ursday, 2727 Atlantic Blvd., Arlington, saintfrancisanimalhospital.org. Clay Humane Clinic o ers a ordable veterinary treatment, including free cat spaying and neutering services, so that every pet can receive vital care when in need. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday, 2230 Filmore St., Orange Park, clayhumane.org. REHOMING ASSISTANCE It is important to consider all available alternatives and helpful resources before deciding to surrender a pet. But, if you believe you are out of options and  nding a new home is best for your pet, try re-homing it on your own rather than surrendering it to a facility. You can also visit a no-kill shelter, for assistance. JHS admits pets by appointment only. The staff can also post a listing on its Community Pets page, at no cost to you. 8464 Beach Blvd., Southside, jaxhumane.org. COJ Animal Care & Protective Services admits pets by appointment only. 2020 Forest St., Mixon Town, friendso axanimals.com. Being proactive goes a long way. If you are not facing  nancial hardship, consider donating funds to your favorite animal shelter or rescue organization to help other animals in need.  is is a great way to pay it forward and help those in times of need.

Davi the Dachshund mail@folioweekly.com Subscribe to Folio Weekly Magazine’s Pets Newsletter at folioweekly.com/newsletters LOCAL ORGANIZATIONS CAN HELP YOU PROVIDE FOR YOUR PET EVERYONE NEEDS A LITTLE HELP

ADOPTABLES SEYMOUR

Snuggly, polite pup seeks fun, dog-loving human and/or giant alien plant for romps on the beach, catch sessions, and couch cuddle time. Wanna take me home? Stop by JHS and ask to meet me—or take me on a Dog Day Out! Learn more at: jaxhumane.org/dogdayout

MAC & CHEESE COOK OFF Kanine Social hosts its inaugural comfortfood competition, with 10 amateur chefs vying for bragging rights. Noon-2 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 9, Kanine Social, 580 College St., Brooklyn, facebook.com/KanineSocial, $5 to taste.

VERA ADOPTABLES

Did you know my name is Russian for faith? It’s true! I’m a sweet, affectionate girl who’s ready to be your faithful friend and companion. I love laps,  shy treats, and long naps in the sun. If I sound like the one for you, you’ll  nd me waiting at 8464 Beach Blvd.!

PUPS ON THE PATIO YAPPY HOUR One waterfront bar is rolling out the red carpet for pet parents and their fur babies. Located inside the Guy Harvey Resort, Santiago’s is offering $1 off drinks, $3 doggie “paw’ke” bowls and free dog biscuits during this weekly event. 4-7 p.m. Monday, Feb. 10, Santiago’s Florida Kitchen & Craft Bar, 860 A1A Beach Blvd., St. Aug. Beach, santiagosfloridakitchen.com.