Save Washington Pets

Spay/Neuter Assistance Legislation:

Legislative advocacy is part of the Federation's mission. During the 2009 and 2010 legislative sessions, the Federation made passage of the spay/neuter assistance bill (SB 5329/HB 1406) one of its legislative priorities. We look forward to continuing to work with the Federation to pass a spay/neuter assistance bill in Washington.

Oasis for Animals supports this effort to help prevent animal homelessness and save animals’ lives. Learn more and join us in supporting the bill by visiting the Save Washington Pets website: www.savewashingtonpets.org.

The Problem

Euthanasia is not the acceptable solution to pet overpopulation. Homelessness is the single leading cause of death for healthy cats and dogs in the United States. In Washington State, over 60,000 cats and dogs were reported euthanized in Washington shelters in 2005 - and only a third of the survey recipients responded. On average, we estimate that over 165 dogs and cats lose their lives in shelters each day.

An estimated 45 to 48 percent of the animals brought to Washington shelters have been euthanized in recent years.

Risk of Dog Bites. Unaltered dogs account for 82 percent of serious dog bites; 92 percent of dogs involved in fatal attacks were not altered.

Financial Cost. Millions of dollars are spent in Washington each year to impound, care for and euthanize unwanted dogs and cats.

The Solution

Spay/Neuter. The most effective and humane way to reduce the number of animals dying in shelters is a targeted, statewide spay/neuter program. We need to spend money on preventing the problem rather than dealing with the aftermath of unwanted dogs and cats.