The State Department of Agriculture has announced a new grant program to help with low-cost spay and neuter services to benefit unwanted dogs and cats. Missourians who want to help out are now able to buy "I’m Pet Friendly" license plates.

To get one of these special license plates, motorists will first pay a $25 contribution to the Missouri State Humane Association and will be issued an emblem-use authorization. The emblem-use authorization can then be submitted to the State Revenue Department along with a $15 specialty license plate fee and an Application for Missouri Personalized and Special License Plate form. A $20 donation will go to the Missouri Pet Spay/Neuter Fund administered by the Department of Agriculture.

Eligible humane societies, local municipal animal shelters, and organizations exempt from federal income taxation are allowed to apply for the funds.

Information on how to make a donation to the Missouri State Humane Association to receive an emblem-use authorization is available on the organization’s website. The "I’m Pet Friendly" plates can be ordered by visiting the Department of Revenue’s license plate page . Information about the pet spay/neuter grant program can be found on the Department of Agriculture’s website .

Download/Listen: Steve Walsh report (:60 MP3)