Willamette Animal Guild announced on April 14 that it has closed its low-cost spay-and-neuter clinic in Springfield after operating for 18 years, citing a series of significant challenges.
The closure affects pet owners and animal welfare efforts in Springfield and Lane County, where the nonprofit had been a key provider of affordable veterinary services. The organization said “insurmountable” difficulties led to the decision.
In a letter to the community dated April 9, the board said major damage to its clinic building from a roof leak last year and the sudden death of former medical director Dr. Marybeth Chaconas in May 2025 were among several setbacks. The board also noted that Misha English, who served as volunteer board president and de facto executive director for nearly ten years, is facing “significant health challenges” that require her to step down. Efforts to find a replacement have not been successful.
“Without English’s leadership, WAG cannot continue as an organization,” the board wrote in its letter. Since 2008, Willamette Animal Guild has provided more than 84,000 spay and neuter surgeries according to information on its website.
The group said it will contact clients with scheduled surgeries soon to cancel appointments and issue refunds. In an automated email response, WAG advised that other local options for low-cost spay and neuter services include Main Street Spay Neuter Clinic in Springfield, Spay & Neuter Clinic in Eugene, and RAD Pets in Corvallis.
“We take comfort in the fact that we were able to keep WAG thriving long enough to see the arrival of several new low-cost spay/neuter clinics in the region that will be able to service those community members in need,” the board added.
