December 14, 2011
Pet Spay & Neuter Grants Now Available for 2012
"I'm Pet Friendly" License Plates Provide Care for Animals throughout Missouri.
The Missouri Department of Agriculture now has grants for 2012 available to animal shelters, rescue groups and other non-profit organizations for spay and neuter services. This is the fourth year for the program and applications are being accepted through Feb. 15, 2012.
The Pet Spay and Neuter Program helps animal shelters, humane societies and non-profit rescue groups with the costs of spaying and neutering animals. Last year, the Department was able to provide $20,000 for Missouri shelters and rescue groups through this program.
"The Pet Spay and Neuter program is one more example of our commitment to animal welfare in our state," said Director of Agriculture Dr. Jon Hagler. "By focusing on animal shelters and low-cost spay neuter initiatives, including our charitable organizations, we are making a difference for animals that may have otherwise gone without this veterinary care. We are proud to provide assistance to shelters, rescues and non-profits across Missouri."
Copies of the required forms and instructions for preparing an application are available on the Missouri Department of Agriculture's website at mda.mo.gov.
The Pet Spay & Neuter program is funded through the sales of "I'm Pet Friendly" license plates through the Missouri Department of Revenue. Each sale of the plate donates $20 to the Missouri Pet Spay & Neuter Fund, which is administered by the Missouri Department of Agriculture.
The plates are available to Missouri residents making a donation to the program. You may obtain the "I'm Pet Friendly" license plates throughout the year at your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) - a renewal notice is not necessary.
The 2011 recipients included the City of Windsor Pound, Ava Area Animal Welfare League, SAAF House Spay/Neuter Clinic, Clinton Animal Rescue Endeavor, Society for the Treatment of Abandoned and Fractured Friends, Humane Society of St. Joseph & Buchanan County, BARC, Independence Animal Services, Humane Society of Southeast Missouri and Protect Ever Pet (PEP) Incorporated.
Grants help each organization provide spay and neuter services to the animals they receive prior to making the animals available for adoption. Grant funds may also be used to assist low income pet owners who cannot afford these vital veterinary services.
For more information, please contact the Missouri Department of Agriculture or visit mda.mo.gov.