More ‘snips’ to come: Humane Society to expand spay and neuter services | Local News

BRATTLEBORO — Last year, the Windham County Humane Society spayed and neutered more than 800 cats and dogs and this year, that number is expected to increase.

“And next year, when the new facility is fully operational, we’ll be able to spay and neuter three to four times that number,” said Maya Richmond, executive director.

The surgical service is performed by an experienced veterinarian who conducts up to 40 operations in one day. The Humane Society charges vary, from $120 for a male cat up to $282 for a female dog. The organization also offers the service for rabbits, at $165.

A full service package is also available, which includes the operation, vaccines for rabies and distemper, a microchip, nail trimming and ear cleaning, with prices ranging from $175 for a male cat to $337 for a female dog.

“It can be an expensive procedure,” said Richmond, which is why the Windham County Human Society offers its Pet Care Assistance Program.

The program can help defray the cost of procedures such as spaying and neutering, and also provides options for long-term care for animals and help in providing food for dogs and cats.

“Part of the reason we needed more space was the demand for veterinary services in the community,” said Richmond. “The need for spaying and neutering of dogs is growing more and more. For the first time in almost 20 years we’ve seen an increase in euthanasia rates across the country.”

That’s mostly medium to large dogs, because small dogs are trending with pet owners.

“Costs have gone up and people just can’t afford larger dogs compared to smaller dogs,” she said.

In late summer, Richmond hopes to host a grand opening of the new facility, which includes a 2,000-square-foot addition that features a pet wellness center and a surgery suite and treatment room.

The current building is being renovated to include a brighter and quieter kennel for dogs and the cats are getting an area to roam about that includes a three-season sun porch.

Richmond said the Windham County Humane Society is fortunate that many community members have supported their efforts, with small one-time donations, recurring donations and to the renovation fund.

Some people donate specifically to the Pet Care Assistance program, she said.

“Some folks really want to give back to their neighbors and help them keep healthy animals. This provides a great opportunity for that.”

The Humane Society also receives grants each year that help with the costs of maintaining the shelter and providing services.

“Not everyone knows that we offer a lower cost of basic veterinary care, especially for people who need it,” said Richmond. “We don’t want to compete with our local veterinarians. They’re very, very supportive of us.”

Folks who don’t have the means to properly care for their pets are often referred to the Humane Society for help, she said.

To learn more about the services and the regular scheduled spay/neuter clinics, or to donate, visit www.windhamcountyhumane.org, email info@windhamcountyhumane.org, or call 802-254-2232.