by Bridie Cavanaugh

Created on: June 12, 2009   Last Updated: June 13, 2009

Millions of adoptable dogs and cats are euthanized each year because they can not find a home. Many find their way into already crowded shelters as part of unplanned and unwanted litters. You can do your part to help end pet overpopulation by spaying/neutering your dogs and cats. A good national resource for spay/neuter information is SPAY/USA.

Founded in 1990, the SPAY/USA is a program of the North Shore Animal League of America. The North Shore Animal League of America (www.nsalamerica.org) is the largest no-kill animal rescue organization in the world. Through the SPAY/USA program they provide a nationwide network, and referral service, for local spay/neuter services and information.

SPAY/USA may be reached via phone at 800-248-SPAY between the hours of 9:00am - 4:30pm EST (Monday- Friday). Information can also be obtained on their website at www.spayusa.org. Their counselors will provide you with references to affordable, subsidized, local spay/neuter services. They are also happy to work with individuals to help set up affordable spay/neuter services in areas not currently covered by their program. Their goal is to ensure that spay/neuter services are available, and affordable, for everyone.

The SPAY/USA national network includes over 7000 veterinarians, working at over 1000 spay/neuter clinics and programs, throughout the country. These highly qualified veterinarians realize the importance of affordable spay/neuter programs and want to assist in making the services attainable locally. Once you have contacted the SPAY/USA program, you will be sent a certificate to present to a local veterinarian. This certificate will indicate you been referred by the SPAY/USA program and will allow you to receive subsidized pricing. You will be responsible for paying the veterinarian directly for the spay/neuter services.

The SPAY/USA website also offers a wealth of information on the benefits of spay/neuter surgery. They provide easy access to educational materials, statistics and links to local spay/neuter and rescue organizations. Information is available for both individuals seeking to spay/neuter their pets at an affordable rate and for individuals/groups hoping to start a low cost spay/neuter program in their area. They also provide information on feral cats and suggestions for starting local programs to manage the feral cat population.

The number of unwanted companion animals is at an all time high. Spay/neuter your pets and help end pet overpopulation. Call SPAY/USA today to discuss the benefits of sterilizing your pet and ask for a certificate, or referral, to bring to the local SPAY/USA veterinarian.

References:

www.nsalamerica.org

www.spayusa.org

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