UPPER LAKE, Calif. – The Habematolel Pomo of Upper Lake has made a significant donation to assist with funding for an upcoming spay and neuter clinic.

The tribe said it has donated Pet Fix - Lake County, a partnership between The SPCA of Lake County, Dogwood Animal Rescue Project and Clearlake Animal Association.

Habematolel’s donation includes $4,000 to fund a feral cat clinic and $18,500 to support half the cost of the upcoming three-day "Pet Fix - Lake County" spay and neuter clinic scheduled for June 13 to 15.

The tribe’s support will allow the SPCA to spay and neuter approximately 200 owned cats and dogs over the three-day weekend, while also supporting a dedicated clinic for unowned, feral cats in the community.

In addition to spay and neuter services, pets will receive vaccinations to prevent the spread of communicable diseases.

“This donation reflects our tribe’s deep commitment to supporting the health and well-being of all members of our community,” said Chairperson Danielle Cirelli of the Habematolel Pomo of Upper Lake. “We’re especially grateful to Tara Downey for bringing this need to our attention. Her advocacy and support for tribes and for Lake County is inspiring, and this collaboration is a strong example of how intergovernmental relationships can make a positive impact.”

Tara Downey, a Clearlake city councilmember and member of the Mechoopda Indian Tribe, has been instrumental in building cooperative bridges between the city of Clearlake and the tribe. Her outreach on this issue exemplifies the kind of partnership HPUL seeks to foster throughout the region.

“There is an ongoing overpopulation crisis of cats and dogs in Lake County,” said Fawn Williams, treasurer of the SPCA and a veterinary assistant for the clinic. “Many residents simply cannot afford to spay or neuter their pets, and this incredible gift from the Tribe will provide so many benefits to our Lake County neighbors. Beyond controlling the pet population, this donation is going to decrease the spread of disease, prevent suffering, and improve the lives of animals and humans alike.”

The SPCA of Lake County is a nonprofit dedicated to providing high-volume, low-cost spay and neuter services. Their work is essential in addressing the growing number of stray and unowned animals in the area.

By spaying and neutering feral cat colonies, the SPCA helps stabilize and eventually reduce colony populations, curbing the spread of disease and preventing injuries among animals.