News Release

The Missouri Department of Agriculture’s Pet Spay and Neuter Program has grants available to assist animal shelters, rescue groups and other non-profit organizations with spay and neuter services. Last year, the Department of Agriculture provided $20,000 for spay and neuter initiatives through this program.  Applications for 2016 grants are available now and are due Monday, Feb. 29, 2016.
 
The Pet Spay and Neuter Program helps animal shelters, humane societies and non-profit groups with the costs of spaying and neutering animals. The required forms and instructions for preparing an application are available on the Missouri Department of Agriculture’s website at agriculture.mo.gov. Qualified organizations can complete their application electronically.
 
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. The fees are collected by the Missouri State Humane Association and administered by the Missouri Department of Agriculture.
 
The plates are available to Missouri residents making a donation to the program. “I’m Pet Friendly” license plates are available throughout the year at local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) offices, a renewal notice is not necessary. This is the seventh consecutive year grants have been made available through the Missouri Department of Agriculture.
 
Licensed animal shelters and non-profit spay and neuter initiatives are eligible to apply. Evaluation of proposals and selection for awards is made by panel of appointed individuals. Grants help organizations assist low income pet owners who may not otherwise be able to afford these vital veterinary services.
 
For more information, please visit the Missouri Department of Agriculture online at agriculture.mo.gov.
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