RUSSELLVILLE, Ky. (WBKO) – In its eight weeks of existence, Spayed and Aid of Kentucky has brought hope to Logan County’s animals, drawing the attention of the community and other animal welfare organizations.
“Our main goal and mission of Spayed and Aid of Kentucky is to prevent unwanted litters from ending up in local welfare organizations or being dumped or we see thousands of pets that need to be given up on Facebook every day,” says Amanda Castile, Co-founder of Spayed and Aid of Kentucky.
After their first successful pet food drive, distribution event, and spay/neutering clinic, Spayed at Aid of Kentucky is actively seeking individuals in the community to join their mission to help the pets of Logan County.
“We are a grassroots organization that is 100% funded by donations. We are exactly 8 weeks in and have had tremendous support from Logan County. We can’t thank people enough!” says Karen Kirsch, Co-founder of Spayed and Aid of Kentucky.
Kirsch and Castile met while working for another animal welfare agency. Castile dreams of bringing free spay/neuter services to the county while Kirsch dreams of creating a free pet food pantry. The two decided to combine their efforts and became an official non-profit organization in January.
Their goal is to help pet owners with financial difficulties and alleviate some of the costs of caring for their animals. This will help owners take care of their animals instead of releasing them into the wild or surrendering them to overcrowded shelters.
The founders’ dreams have become a reality with more than 400 animals delivered through their pet food pantry and more than 80 animals awaiting spaying and neutering services.
“Spaying or neutering your pet is very important. Spaying, you can prevent breast cancer, uterine cancer, ovarian cancer, (and) neutering your animal will prevent roaming .It also prevents unwanted litter which, in essence, will save thousands of lives every year,” said Castile.
For their spaying and neutering services, they have partnered with Dr. Jenny Brown-Todd, owner of Brown Animal Hospital in Russellville.
“In addition to the Spayed and Aid program, I also offer discounted spays and neuters myself to help give back to the community, help prevent suffering, and increase the quality of life for pets, said Dr. Brown-Todd.
The service through Spayed and Aid is fully funded by donations, and Spayed and Aid will manage all appointment details. Those wishing to participate should contact the agency and not directly with Dr. Brown-Todd.
For their pet food services, 217 families signed up and received food for their pets at the first distribution event last week. The event fed more than 400 pets.
Those who did not sign up for services got food on a first come, first served basis.
Future distribution events will be announced on their Facebook page.
Spayed and Aid of Kentucky is also looking for volunteers to help them with their mission.
As the organization is expected to grow, Castile and Kirsch will need help managing the organization’s operations and logistics.
“We are not affiliated with any other government organization or animal welfare organization, and so donations help us save lives,” Castile said.
“We really need the Community’s help, and we are very grateful to all of you,” added Kirsch.
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