KILAUEA — Applications for the first free spay and neuter clinics for cats and dogs are available online at the Kaua‘i Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) website at www.kauaispca.org/our-programs.
The first clinics for cats will be held on Thursday and Friday. The first clinic for dogs will be held on Feb. 25, the Kaua‘i SPCA announced on Tuesday.
The Kaua‘i SPCA has been awarded a $200,000 grant from the JR Peterson Foundation to host three monthly free spay and neuter clinics — two for cats and one for dogs — with a focus on addressing the needs of both cat and dog populations across the island.
“Pet overpopulation is a significant issue on Kaua‘i, and the cost of spay/neuter is often beyond reach for our island’s residents,” said Mirah Horowitz, president of the Kaua‘i SPCA. “We are incredibly grateful to the JR Peterson Foundation for their generous support, which will allow us to make a tangible impact on the lives of pets and their owners across the island.”
The JR Peterson Foundation funding will enable the Kaua‘i SPCA to expand its efforts in controlling pet overpopulation and ensuring the health and well-being of animals in the community.
Each month, Kaua‘i SPCA will hold two spay and neuter clinics exclusively for cats and one clinic for dogs. These free clinics will provide vital services to pet owners, who may not otherwise have access to affordable veterinary care.
The clinics will be open to residents of all income levels, furthering the organization’s commitment to serving the entire community.
Kaua‘i SPCA recognizes the importance of spaying and neutering in controlling the pet population and reducing the number of animals entering shelters. By offering these services free of charge, the organization aims to remove financial barriers that may prevent pet owners from seeking necessary care for their animals.
“Providing access to affordable spay/neuter services is critical in ensuring the health and happiness of both pets and their human companions,” said Dr. Ranaella Steinberg, the executive director of the Kaua‘i SPCA.
“Not only does spaying and neutering prevent unwanted litters and alleviate unnecessary suffering, it also has numerous health benefits for pets, including reducing the risk of certain cancers and behavioral issues.”
