The Pit Snip & Chip Program was designed as an incentive program to spay or neuter pit bull and pit bull mixes from the unincorporated areas of Monterey County and contracting cities. The campaign was launched because Animal Services staff realized that pit bulls and pit bull mixes seemed to be increasing in number at the shelter and was the breed most often euthanized. FoCAS recognized the need to proactively approach the problem of pit bull overpopulation. As a result, Monterey County Animal Services has successfully spayed and neutered over 100 pit bulls and pit bull mixes in the County. The costs of the surgeries and micro-chipping are completely covered by FoCAS. Animals are selected based on referrals from the community, by animal control officers or by pits being reclaimed at the shelter. Owners must agree to pay for rabies vaccinations, dog licensing and the registration of the micro-chip. The success of the program has exceeded Animal Services expectation, and FoCAS is committed to both continuing and to supporting the growth of the program in the future.
South County Mobile Spay/Neuter Program
In partnership with MCAS and the Humane Society’s Rural Area Veterinary Services (RAVS) program, FoCAS is implementing the “Mobile Spay/Neuter Program” in the far reaching areas of South Monterey County. This program is a six month pilot program designed to strategically take spay/neuter and general medical services directly to the residents of South County, alleviating the issues of distance and facilities that they often face. The mobile clinic will be available to offer one time, no cost spay/neuter services to low/no income residents. If successful, the same program can be implemented in other areas of Monterey County that represent similar challenges in geography and economics.
Pets for Seniors Program
One of the more serious problems that the elderly face today is not necessarily serious health issues—it is loneliness. While a pet can provide much needed companionship and love, the costs of owning a pet can be significant and many senior citizens live on a fixed income. In 2008, FoCAS established the Pets for Seniors Program. Through this program, seniors 60 and older in the Monterey County area can enjoy the love of a pet without suffering the financial hardship. The program covers all costs of pet adoption (including initial immunizations, spay/neuter and licensing fees) at no cost and provides a $400 annual subsidy to help cover the costs of responsible pet ownership.