Help control the pet population at new spay and neuter clinic
· Toronto Sun
Bob Barker’s famous signoff from The Price is Right is etched into the memories of many: “Help control the pet population. Have your pets spayed or neutered.“
This noble goal, however, can be easier said than done for pet owners who are struggling financially.
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But a new program at the Ontario SPCA and Humane Society of Durham Region in Whitby aims to help those in need with a reduced-cost spay/neuter clinic for dogs and cats.
Shannon Stephenson, operations manager for the veterinary clinic at the Humane Society of Durham Region, highlighted the need for these services in the community.
“Many pet parents are facing barriers to accessing timely veterinary care and spay and neuter services are one of the most effective ways to prevent unwanted litters and reducing the number of animals entering shelters,” she explained. “We’re supporting responsible pet care and going back to our overall commitment of reducing pet overpopulation.”
Veterinary care financially out of reach for some
With rising costs of pet ownership, along with everything else, some families are finding veterinary care out of reach financially. The clinic’s goal is to provide accessible care for the community.
“It’s really important to make sure that we have successful service for anyone who needs it,” Stephenson said. “Our services are open to anyone, regardless of geography, income level.”
Humans can sign up their dog or cat online at ontariospca.ca once registrations open on Tuesday and the clinic will be in touch to set up the appointments. Animals will be examined prior to the procedure.
“We want to make sure they’re healthy and able to undergo anesthesia,“ Stephenson explained.
The response from the community so far has been positive. Stephenson said.
“They seem to be very excited. Very grateful that we have this service offering to the community. I think we’re going to be able to make a really great impact,” she said.
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According to the BC SPCA, spaying and neutering can have additional benefits beyond preventing accidental litters.
“Studies show that spayed/neutered pets, on average, live longer,” the website says, adding spaying can reduce the risk of mammary cancer, and eliminate the risk of ovarian and uterine cancer and pyometra. In addition to the health benefits, spaying or neutering can also help with negative behaviours, such as aggression or marking.
The Humane Society of Durham Region also offers community care veterinary services at reduced costs, such as vaccinations and microchipping. Reduced cost nail trims are also provided through community partnership with Pet Valu, and all funds go toward the shelter.
Food pantry also available for those in need
There is also a food pantry available for those in need of supplies. It’s open from 11-6 at the shelter located at 1505 Wentworth St, in Whitby. No appointment is necessary, and anyone in need can access things like food and litter.
“We always want to encourage people if they’re struggling, to reach out to us,” Stephenson said, explaining that providing services such as reduced-cost spay and neuters and the food pantry support the overall goal of keeping animals in their homes.
“It’s always best for an animal to stay with their pet parents that love them,” she said.
Sign-ups for the spay and neuter clinics in both Stouffville and Whitby will open on April 7 at 10 a.m. online at ontariospca.ca.
Pricing for cat spay is $282, and neuter is $227. For dogs, a spay is $500 and neuter is $416. Fees for add-ons, such as a microchip, are available online.
The shelters are always accepting donations for the food pantry, as well as applications for foster homes.