GREENSBORO -- From high gas prices to shrinking home values, millions of Americans are bucking under the weight of the failing economy, forcing many to tighten their budgets even more.

Les Saleeby, who has five miniature pinchers – three male and two female – has always been a regular at the vets. But lately her visits are fewer and farther between.

Like many Americans, Saleeby is struggling. Rising gas prices and mounting medical bills from a car accident that left her partially blind and handicapped are a constant drain on her budget.

“I have to sometimes choose who gets medicine and who gets fed first,” said Saleeby.

Thanks to the Piedmont Communities Spay/Neuter Clinic and Dr. Jeff Courville, she and other pet owners have a place to turn.

“By coming to the clinic I can have two of my pups done, checked out for their yearly checkup, heartworm pills, heart test rabies test, anything like that -- I can get two done for the price of one,” said Saleeby.

Added Courville, “What we try to do here is be able to provide people with the base minimum standards that they need to provide for their pet at the lowest cost possible."

The clinic caters to low-income clients, those on public assistance and fixed incomes. Services are generally half the price of what you would pay at a full-service vet, but even that’s becoming too much for many.

"We've seen in the last six months we're noticing that people aren't even able to do the base minimums for their dog anymore,” said Courville.

A year ago the clinic saw about 35 animals a day. Since the economic downturn, that number has been cut by more than half.

Owning a pet can add up:

•A heartworm test can cost anywhere from $40-60.
•Heartworm, flea and tick prevention can cost $50-150 a year.
•An exam and distemper shot can cost $40-50.
•Rabies vaccine can cost $20-30.

There are also costs for food and shelter.

"We want people to know that we are a low-cost alternative,” said Courville. “We're here to work with you. We want you to provide the base minimums for your animal."

The clinic is open Monday-Thursday, 2:30-5:30 p.m. Friday the hours are 8:30 -11:30 a.m.

They are located at 1910 North Church Street, a few blocks down from Moses Cone Hospital. To schedule an appointment call 336-333-5336.