Credit the Maui Humane Society for its ongoing efforts to control the island’s pet overpopulation.

Recently, MHS brought in veterinarians and vet techs from around the United States to volunteer at inaugural MASH (mobile Army surgical hospital) style clinics.

Over a period of nine days, more than 1,050 dogs and cats were spayed and neutered at no charge. Every pet also received a free microchip, vaccine and county license.

With these services valued at $300 to $800 per pet in the private sector – a grand total of $315,000 to $840,000 delivered at the clinics – these dedicated volunteers helped many Maui residents and may have prevented hundreds of unwanted litters in the future.

Maui Humane Society worked with Animal Balance to bring the pet sterilization clinics to the island, and the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Maui and other animal advocates helped promote them and drive up participation.

Due to the success of the first MASH clinics, a second round of clinics are scheduled for dogs on Aug. 24 and cats on Sept. 28.

Pet owners are encouraged to make an appointment now to spay or neuter their pets for free by calling the Maui Humane Society at 877-3680.

For more information about Maui Humane Society, to adopt a pet, or volunteer, call the Maui Humane Society or visit www.mauihumane.org or www.facebook.com/MauiHumaneSociety.