Many people have pets that are a part of their family and support system.  Some of these individuals have illnesses/issues, and/or live on the street.  These individuals are not able to cover the costs of spay/neuter services for their animal(s).  This is due to not having the funds to pay for these services.  Being on OW, ODSP, or CPP means not having a lot of extra money to spare for these services.  Individuals who have no source of income, spaying/neutering their pet is nearly impossible.

If individuals are not able to spay/neuter their animals, there will be more animals that are be uncared for, on the street, or subject to life threatening situations.  In addition, not spaying or neutering your animal brings up more health concerns for your pet.  Issues such as cancers and behavioural issues.  For more information visit the University of Guelph website (http://www.ovc.uoguelph.ca/phc/en/pethealthcareservices/SpayingNeutering.asp).

It is my hope that the City of Guelph will be able to cover the cost of spay/neuter services at least once a year OR reduce the cost of these services to a sliding scale system based on individual incomes.  The City of Toronto does this and allows individuals to keep their pets as part of their family, "If you receive income supplementation such as ODSP, Ontario Works or GIS, please notify a representative at the time of booking in order to receive a subsidized feline appointment at the discounted rate (http://www.torontohumanesociety.com/what-we-do/spay-neuter)."  In addition, for the month of June kittens are able to be spayed for $20.00.

To read more on this issue look at this publication by Murray Tucker in the Guelph Mercury (http://www.guelphmercury.com/opinion-story/4419516-guelph-needs-an-affordable-spay-and-neuter-clinic/).

Please sign this petition to help raise awareness and bring light to this issue!  Help those who cannot afford spay/neuter services to keep their family members, best friends, and support system in tact!