SPCA Maui Celebrates Spay Neuter Day, Feb. 22

By Wendy Osher

Xena, shown above, was a free puppy from a “mistake” litter of 11. Her new family wanted to make sure the red nosed pit-bull would not have an unwanted litter. The total cost of the procedure was not part of the owner's budget, but they still wanted to have Xena spayed before her first heat. Thanks to SPCA Maui SNAP, and the Makawao Veterinary Clinic, Xena had the procedure and is back to her playful energetic self. The assistance is aimed at preventing thousands of “mistake” litters from occuring.

SPCA Maui celebrates the start of its accessible spay neuter program, SNAP, and National Spay/Neuter Awareness Day today, February 22, 2011. The campaign includes a public awareness sign waving rally at Hana Highway and Haleakala Highways from 7-8:30 a.m.; and across from the Maui Beach Hotel between 4-6 p.m.

SPCA Maui invites the public to join them in support of a “No More Homeless Pets Maui” campaign. Spayed and Neutered pets on leashes are welcome.

Under the SPCA SNAP partnership, the SPCA Maui and the island’s veterinarians work to provide accessible spay/neuter services to Maui’s companion animals regardless of ability to pay. Pets and owners are matched with SPCA Maui partner veterinarians who perform the procedures. SPCA Maui covers the amount of the procedure that the pet’s owner can not afford.

SPCA Maui is an all volunteer 501 ( c ) 3 non-profit dedicated to a “No more homeless Pets Maui and a “no-kill” philosophy of companion animal control.

• What: SPCA Maui Spay Day Rally and Sign Waving
• Event Name: National Spay Day Rally and Sign Waving
• Date: Feb 22nd, 2011
• Time: 7-8:30 a.m. and 4-6 p.m.
• Location: 7-8:30 a.m. Haleakala Highway and Hana Highway
• 4-6 p.m. Ka’ahumanu Ave across Maui Beach Hotel