Traverse City, MI – After participating in the dance-off charity fundraiser “SwingShift and the Stars” with another local animal rescue organization, AC PAW now has funding available to offer low cost spaying and neutering to pet owners in the counties of Grand Traverse, Leelanau, Benzie, Antrim and Kalkaska. AC PAW is kicking off “The Spay and Neuter Project” with over $25,000 in funding raised from the SwingShift event and other fundraisers for this much needed service.

Spaying and neutering is a main component in reducing the homeless cat and dog population which results in overcrowding at animal shelters nationwide. According to the American Humane Association, approximately 3.7 million animals are euthanized at animal shelters every year due to the fact that there aren’t enough willing adopters to save the animals in the shelters. Additionally, there are many health and behavioral benefits that result from spaying and neutering pets. These benefits include eliminating the risk of certain cancers, urine marking, male aggression and roaming behavior.

AC PAW has teamed up with eight local veterinarians to be able to provide low cost spaying and neutering to as many cats and dogs as possible. Currently participating clinics include Mancelona Veterinary Hospital, Northwood Animal Hospital, Suttons Bay Vet Clinic, Brookside Vet Hospital, Long Lake Animal Hospital, Animal Medical Center, Bay West Animal Clinic, Elk Rapids Vet Clinic, Kalkaska Animal Hospital and

Platte Lake Vet Hospital. The Spay & Neuter Project welcomes any vet that would like to participate – please send an email to fixthemallacpaw@gmail.com for more details.

Once pet owners are pre-approved by filling out an AC PAW assistance request form either on-line or using a printed application, they are given a co-payment amount along with a voucher to use at the clinic of their choice. At that time, they will make an appointment to get their pet sterilized. Co-pays will be determined by the pet owner’s financial situation and ability to pay. AC PAW will also consider sterilizing multi-pet households and feral cat populations. There is no limit on the number of animals who will be considered for assistance.

People seeking spay/neuter assistance can request an application by emailing fixthemallacpaw@gmail.com or they can visit the website at nounwantedpets.org and fill out an on-line application. Applications can also be printed and mailed to AC PAW Spay & Neuter Project, PO Box 37, Acme, MI 49610. It will take 3-5 days for approval or denial of an application.

Fundraising will be ongoing to continue support of this wonderful project and direct donations are always appreciated. Donations can be made via PayPal at their website or by visiting nounwantedpets.org. Checks are also accepted at the address above. If you would like to volunteer for the program or are a business interested in sponsorship, please contact AC PAW.