WILSON COUNTY SPAY STATION MARKS 5,000 SURGERIES

The Humane Society of the United States Recognizes Humane Association for Making Significant Progress Towards Ending Pet Overpopulation in Central Tennessee

WASHINGTON (October 24, 2001)– Animal shelters nationwide struggle every day with the problem of pet overpopulation and must find solutions to meet their communities’ needs. In Central Tennessee, the challenge is providing basic veterinary care in a sprawling rural area. Enter the Humane Association of Wilson County and their innovative Spay Station, which offers free spay/neuter surgeries for people who can’t afford to pay a private veterinarian.

Launched in April 2000, the Spay Station marked a significant milestone on October 11 – their 5,000th spay/neuter surgery was performed on a one-and-a-half year old Himalayan mix cat named “Princess.” The Humane Society of the United States is recognizing this accomplishment by sending the group a recognition award. The plaque, which is signed by the director of The HSUS’s Central States Regional Office, Phil Snyder, will hang in the mobile clinic.

“The dedicated staff of the Spay Station and everyone who supports the work that they do have joined forces to prevent the needless suffering of thousands of animals,” said Snyder.

Sara Felmlee, president of the Humane Association of Wilson County, said, “We’re happy that the Spay Station is able to help needy people who otherwise could not afford to have this important procedure done. The spaying of Princess, who had already had two litters, illustrates that spaying and neutering are the most humane and effective means of controlling pet overpopulation.”

Spaying and neutering animals has benefits in addition to preventing the births of puppies and kittens who may not find homes. The procedure also makes for healthier pets who live longer, are less susceptible to some types of cancers, are less likely to bite and are easier to train.

The Spay Station operates a mobile clinic that has so far traveled throughout 20 counties in middle Tennessee. The staff of two veterinarians and two veterinary technicians is joined by volunteers. Together, they perform more than 20 spay/neuter surgeries per day. Clients are asked to provide evidence of need.

“With millions of animals losing their lives every year because there aren’t enough homes for them, there is no compelling reason not to have your pet spayed or neutered,” said Snyder. “There’s no truth to the myth that it is good for animals to have one litter. Spaying or neutering dogs and cats is good for your pet and good for your community.”