Interior renovations are planned to begin soon at the new FieldHaven Feline Center, a low-cost veterinary facility located at 7555 Old Auburn Road in Citrus Heights

CITRUS HEIGHTS, CA (MPG) - Interior renovations are planned to begin soon at FieldHaven Feline Center, a low-cost veterinary facility located at 7555 Old Auburn Road in Citrus Heights which will open this spring, said Makenna Gwatney, its executive director.

The property on Old Auburn Road, well known for its metal sculpture of a playful dragon on the roof, was once the home to Citrus Heights Preschool for decades until it closed abruptly in the spring of 2024. The City of Citrus Heights finalized the purchase of the property at the end of October 2024.

In August, the Citrus Heights City Council approved a temporary 18-month pilot phase lease agreement with the Lincoln-based FieldHaven Feline Center at the cost of one dollar to open a local clinic.

Planned interior tenant renovations include the removal of existing carpeting, the refurbishment of concrete flooring, build out of office and surgical space and construction of an Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) compliant bathroom, Gwatney said.

The new clinic will offer affordable spay/neuter surgeries, low-cost vaccines and microchipping to help keep pets safe.

The need is substantial as the city of Citrus Heights has a substantial feral cat population, and the new FieldHaven Feline Center which will offer low-cost spay/neuter services will open just in time for kitten season when the population increases, she said.

“This city’s approval is more than just a green light for our clinic – it’s a statement that our community is ready to take bold action for animals and families in need,” Gwaltney told the City Council in her presentation.

“We are deeply grateful to every individual and organization that stood with us to make this possible.” 

FieldHaven Feline Center is a non-profit organization dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation and adoption of cats and kittens throughout Placer County and beyond. 

Pricing for spaying and neutering is $65 for feral cats and $150 for owned cats, including vaccines and microchipping, according to FieldHaven’s website.

Through innovative programs and community partnerships, FieldHaven works to ensure every cat has the opportunity to live a safe, healthy, and loved life, according to its website. 

“Spike”, the rooftop dragon will remain on the top of the building but may look a little more cat-like when building renovations are completed, Gwaltney said.

Gwaltney also recognized the support of community partners include Berkeley Humane Society, UC Davis Veterinary Teaching Hospital, UC Davis Koret Shelter Medicine Program, Citrus Heights Pet Hospital, Placer County Animal Services, Front Street Animal Shelter and many others who have provided critical donations of operating room equipment.

The new Citrus Heights clinic isn’t just about vet care – it’s about creating community, compassion, and making sure every family and every pet has access to the high-quality, low-cost services they need, she said.

“We’re also looking for general volunteers and trained medical staff once we’re open to join us. Veterinary students and techs who want to gain surgical and field experience will also be welcome in to help assisting in the day-to-day operations of the clinic,” Gwaltney said.

For more information about adoption, volunteering, or supporting FieldHaven, visit fieldhaven.com or call 916-434-6022.