Michigan Animal Welfare Fund Pays for 2,600 Sterilizations
March 21, 2014
LANSING – Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development’s (MDARD) State Veterinarian Dr. James Averill today announced the Michigan Companion Animal Welfare Fund check-off funded 2,656 sterilizations statewide in 2013. This encouraged the quick adoption of 1,689 cats and 967 dogs and opened more space for abandoned dogs and cats.
“Each year, the Companion Animal Welfare fund receives more interest from Michiganders who wish to help dogs and cats in shelters, but cannot adopt more pets themselves.” said Averill. “In 2013, we distributed $177,131 to 20 facilities around the state. Please help us reach the $200K milestone this year when completing your tax returns.”
The Companion Animal Welfare Fund is a tax check-off established under Public Act 132 of 2007. The fund supports efforts to enhance the adoption of spayed and neutered animals at licensed animal shelters and humane societies. The Michigan Department of Treasury collects the check-off dollars and MDARD distributes to eligible pet adoption facilities through a grant process.
“These are your check-off dollars at work, please take advantage of this opportunity to help make homeless pets more desirable for adoption while averting cruelty to other animals,” Averill said.
In addition to sterilizations, funds were used to buy supplies for sterilizations and provide training for animal control officers on pet and livestock welfare issues. As a result of this program Michigan pets have been sterilized before adoption and found homes; and shelters have received funds to improve the conditions of companion animals while awaiting adoption.
Most funding is used to help cover costs related to sterilization surgery of animals prior to adoption. However, due to the economic climate, MDARD will also be funding anti-cruelty training programs with a focus on livestock. ###
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