A sponsorship program is expected to result in better care for animals and help reduce the number of strays.
The Spay & Neuter Island Pets, or SNIP, Program, has started a groundbreaking partnership with South Pacific Petroleum Corporation to expand access to spay and neuter services, according to a statement from Dr. Mariana Turner, territorial veterinarian at the Guam Department of Agriculture.
SPPC, a leading provider of quality 76 gasoline and Circle K convenience store products, has pledged its support to the SNIP program by contributing to the sponsorship of surgical procedures for animals in need, Turner said.
This collaboration aims to provide much-needed support to the program, which plays a vital role in dog population management on Guam.
Guam residents who are on public assistance now qualify to have the $50 surgery fee sponsored by SPPC, Turner said.
Ancillary services such as rabies vaccination, microchip, and cones will be an additional charge.
Residents may simply present their SNAP/EBT card at registration to receive the sponsorship. This sponsorship is valid at the SNIP's Guam Animals In Need location, as well as the community outreach clinics.
The SNIP Program, a collaboration between the Guam Department of Agriculture and GAIN, has been a cornerstone of Guam’s animal welfare efforts and focuses on reducing the number of unwanted animals though spaying and neutering.
Turner said by partnering with SPPC, the program is taking a significant step toward achieving its mission.
“We are thrilled to partner with SPPC, a private sector partner stepping up to bolster our efforts in tackling the issue of overpopulation of stray animals on Guam. This sponsorship program will allow SNIP to be accessible to those who have not previously been able to afford our services,” Turner said in a statement. “This collaboration demonstrates a shared commitment to animal welfare and sustainability within our local communities.”
She said with SPPC sponsoring surgeries, those with severe financial constraints are able to conserve much needed funds for necessary items like food and necessities, but still able to participate in creating a healthier environment for both people and their animals.
Agriculture Director Chelsa Muña said this “alliance is an excellent example of community.”
“Partners teaming up to be the change we want to see. We are optimistic with the growth of this program and the services we have been able to provide to our residents,” she said.
Members of the public who are interested in signing their pets up for surgery may do so at www.snipclinicguam.com.
Appointments must be made under the owner’s information. For assistance with appointment scheduling, email snip@guamaniamls.org, or call/Whatsapp (671) 988-9421 Monday to Thursday, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
