(Media release from the Georgia Department of Agriculture):
Georgia Department of Agriculture Commissioner Gary W. Black is excited to announce the issuance of $800,000 in grants to assist with spaying and neutering Georgia’s companion animals.
“Often local communities have citizens that are burdened by the high costs of having their pets spayed or neutered,” Commissioner Black said. “This grant will target and aid these communities across Georgia by keeping strays off the street and controlling the animal population in a humane manner.”
Since the Dog and Cat Sterilization program’s inception, it has been utilized to sexually alter thousands of companion animals. The funds for these procedures are obtained from the sales of the Dog and Cat specialty vehicle tags, income tax exempt deductions and from direct contributions to the program. In 2013, the Dog and Cat Sterilization Grant Program was established to allow for Georgia licensed animal shelters, Georgia licensed animal rescue organizations with 501-(c)(3) status and Georgia veterinary medical foundations with 501-(c)(3) status to apply.
Grants will be awarded based on the highest priority after considering factors such as but not limited to:
- targeting important animal populations
- ability to increase surgical numbers
- cost-benefit ratio
- record of grant applicant and sustainability.
Applicants must reside in Georgia and all procedures must be performed by licensed Georgia veterinarians. The online application will be available on the Georgia Dog and Cat Sterilization website at http://www.agr.georgia.gov/dog-cat-sterilization-program.aspx on January 18, 2022, and must be submitted by the close of business on February 18th, 2022.
Questions about the grant program can be submitted to DCSP@agr.georgia.gov . To make a tax-exempt donation to the Dog and Cat Sterilization Program visit http://agr.georgia.gov/dog-cat-sterilization-program.aspx.
