Representatives of Friends of Animals (FoA), an animal protection organization, are taking action to address what they say is a euthanasia crisis in animal shelters across the U.S., with those in New York City being no exception. They said the NYC Animal Care Center euthanized more than 1,400 cats and dogs in the first half of 2024.

 

FoA officials said there is no disputing that spaying/neutering helps combat overpopulation and the euthanasia of unwanted, homeless animals. To this end, from Dec. 10-11, the organization, incorporated in New York in 1957, will be gifting 100 free spay/neuter certificates to NYC pet owners who cannot afford FoA’s already lower-cost spay/neuter program. They said the total value of the certificates is approximately $20,000.

 

“The City of New York has not addressed the overpopulation of cats and dogs by offering enough solutions to prevent euthanasia,” said Elizabeth Forel, animal activist, president of the Coalition for NYC Animals, and board member of FoA. “With the cost of things so high in NYC, Friends of Animals’ foresight and generosity in meeting this crisis is very welcome.”

 

FoA representatives said the organization’s lower-cost program covers several veterinarians in all of New York City’s five boroughs. They said the free certificate will cover the cost of a routine spay/neuter procedure including a cursory (not full) surgical pre-exam, anesthesia, surgery, waste disposal, day of surgery post-operative care and pain relief, hospitalization as required, and stitch removal if necessary.

 

They said the free certificates will be available on a first-come, first-serve basis. Those in need can call 1-800-321-PETS (7387) M-F, 9-5 EST to request a certificate.

 

FoA advocates for the rights of animals, free-living and domestic around the world. Visit www.friendsofanimals.org to learn more.