A pup up for adoption at the Fayetteville Animal Shelter. Caroline Bauman

The Fayetteville Animal Shelter will offer free spay and neuter surgeries to Fayetteville residents for dogs and cats on three upcoming dates in February and March.

Surgery days are scheduled for Feb. 16, March 1, and March 15.

Shelter superintendent Justine Lentz said she hopes the free surgeries can serve as a proactive step to prevent overcrowding at the shelter later in the year.

“Spring is a really high intake time for us and we want to make it as easy on people as possible to help prevent unwanted puppies and kittens,” Lentz said. “We want to encourage people to take action before need to call the shelter because their cat or dog just had a litter.”

Locals interested in taking advantage of the free service can call the shelter at 479-444-3456 to make an appointment beginning this Friday, Feb. 1. Proof of Fayetteville residency will be required.

The shelter also offers an income-based, low cost spay/neuter program for city residents throughout the year, and details can be found on the city’s website.

Fayetteville Animal Shelter, located at 1640 South Armstrong Avenue, is open Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.