ACWP recognizes that the most effective way to decrease the number of animals in the community is to educate and promote access to low cost spay and neuter services. Each year, ACWP applies for grant funding from both public and private sources so that we are able to offer free and low-cost spay/neuter surgeries to community animals. Summers County residents can apply for spay/neuter vouchers through our website, when funding is available. ACWP will announce via social media when funds are available. Volunteers manage
The S/N voucher will cover (only) the fee for spaying or neutering the animal listed on this voucher, along with a rabies vaccine (if needed). The voucher will cover in-heat or pregnancy fees. You are responsible for payment of any remaining charges associated with the visit that your selected veterinarian office charges. Such as, but not limited to, office visit fee, dewormer, flea treatment, additional vaccines, prescriptions, etc. Also, if you are unable to keep the appointment, you must contact the vet office and your issued voucher is forfeit unless rescheduled before the voucher’s expiration date. Check with your vet’s office about their “No Show” policies and any charges as a result.
Spaying (for females) and neutering (for males) are routine surgical procedures that provide significant health, behavioral, and community benefits. These procedures are one of the most effective ways to combat pet overpopulation and contribute to a better quality of life for companion animals.
Health benefits
Reduced cancer risk: Spaying eliminates the risk of uterine and ovarian cancers and drastically reduces the incidence of mammary tumors. Neutering eliminates the risk of testicular cancer and lowers the risk of prostate problems.
Prevents infections: Spaying prevents pyometra, a common and potentially fatal uterine infection in unspayed females.
Longer lifespan: On average, spayed and neutered pets live longer, healthier lives than unaltered animals.
Avoids complications from pregnancy and birth: For female pets, spaying eliminates the physical stress and potential complications associated with pregnancy and delivery.
Behavioral benefits
Reduces roaming: Neutered males are less likely to roam and escape in search of a mate, which lowers the risk of getting lost, hit by cars, or fighting with other animals.
Decreases undesirable behaviors: Spaying and neutering can reduce or eliminate hormone-driven behaviors such as aggression, territorial marking through urination, and excessive vocalization or yowling.
Creates calmer pets: By removing the drive to reproduce, spayed and neutered pets can often be calmer and focus more on their human family.
Community benefits
The community benefits of Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) include population control, which stabilizes cat colonies and reduces nuisance behaviors like spraying and fighting. It also saves municipalities money by decreasing the burden on animal shelters and improves public health by vaccinating cats and reducing the spread of disease. Additionally, TNR can provide a form of natural rodent control and ultimately helps make communities safer for both people and animals. Combats pet overpopulation: Millions of homeless animals enter shelters each year, and many are euthanized simply because there aren’t enough homes. Spaying and neutering prevents unwanted litters and reduces the strain on shelters.
Saves taxpayer dollars: The cost of managing homeless animals, including animal control, shelter operations, and euthanasia, costs taxpayers over $1 billion annually. Increased spaying and neutering reduces these costs.
Reduces stray animal problems: Fewer stray animals mean fewer car accidents, less spread of zoonotic diseases like rabies, and less predation on local wildlife.
Common myths vs. facts
Myth: It will make my pet fat.
Fact: The procedure does not cause weight gain. Weight gain is a result of overfeeding and lack of exercise. Your veterinarian can recommend a diet and exercise plan for your pet.
Myth: My pet needs to have one litter first.
Fact: There is no medical benefit to allowing a female pet to have a litter before being spayed. Spaying before the first heat cycle provides the best protection against uterine infections and mammary cancer.
Myth: It will change my pet’s personality.
Fact: While some hormone-driven behaviors may subside, your pet’s fundamental personality will not change. It will remain the same loving and playful companion you know.
Myth: It is too expensive.
Fact: The cost of spaying or neutering is far less than the cost of raising a litter. Low-cost and free options are often available through local animal shelters and humane societies