The SPCA Mobile Desexing Clinic visits Reefton

SPCA’s Mobile Desexing Clinic (known to the team as ‘Snippy’), has just wrapped up its latest tour – this time visiting the small West Coast town of Reefton.

Offering free desexing for pet owners in hardship, Snippy typically targets towns which are far away from the nearest veterinary clinic, and where there are high numbers of stray cats and dogs.

Heidi Olsen, SPCA’s National Desexing Programmes Lead, said that Reefton was in clear need of desexing assistance.

“We’re very pleased to have been able to help out,” says Heidi. “Reefton is similar to other small towns that Snippy has travelled to, where some owners may struggle to access available veterinary services due to their location.

“We know times are tough right now, especially with the cost of living and cost of petrol being what it is. By eliminating the need for locals to travel long distances to get their pets desexed, we know that would’ve made a big difference for a lot of people.”

The SPCA Mobile Desexing team – made up of Emma (vet), Cesar (vet nurse), Mary-Anne (vet nurse) and Judith (admin) were able to desex 28 cats and 11 dogs - a total of 39 animals over the four-day campaign that ran from 16 – 19 March this year.

Additionally, they also administered 35 vaccinations, 32 microchips, and 74 parasite treatments.

The Inspectorate team also popped by and provided a big supply of pet food for local pet owners. The donations and the free services were very well received.

“The pet owners were very dedicated - we didn't have any cancellations or no-shows to appointments,” said Heidi. “They were also generous, as we received $406.50 in donations.”

For more information on SPCA’s desexing initiatives, visit SPCA’s dedicated desexing website.