In May 2012, the Humane Society of Genesee County (HSGC) opened the doors to a transformative addition in their facility – the Mr. and Mrs. Bernhard Stroh Wing, home to their spay/neuter clinic. This clinic was the realization of a mission-driven goal to address the pressing issue of animal overpopulation, ensuring every dog and cat adopted from HSGC is spayed or neutered, microchipped, vaccinated and tested for heartworm or feline leukemia.
Before the clinic was operational, the Humane Society relied on a partnership with local veterinarians. Adopters were given coupons for spay/neuter services, but as David Schmieder, Executive Director of HSGC, explains, “After studying this for a couple of years, it was determined that less than half of those coupons were being redeemed, which indicated that less than half of the adopted animals were being spayed or neutered.” Recognizing this gap, the decision to build the clinic on-site was a crucial step toward fulfilling HSGC’s mission to prevent animal overpopulation.
Mary Fisher, DVM has performed surgeries at HSGC since 2012.
Thirteen years later, the clinic’s work speaks volumes. Having performed nearly 13,000 spay/neuter surgeries, Schmieder reflects on the long-term impact: “We have helped prevent hundreds of thousands of unwanted animals from entering the community. That fact is one of the most notable outcomes from the 13,000+ surgeries performed.”
These procedures have undoubtedly made a lasting difference in reducing the number of homeless animals. The clinic’s ability to spay and neuter every animal before adoption also alleviates the burden on adopters, making it easier and more affordable to bring a new pet home.
Donations play a critical role in keeping the clinic running smoothly. “Donations are how our entire organization survives,” says Schmieder. “We have been providing assistance to homeless animals for over 98 years through these types of donations.” While there are no plans to expand the clinic’s services at this time, the funds raised will help HSGC maintain its current operations, ensuring that the clinic continues to support the community and fulfill its mission.
Looking ahead, HSGC’s long-term goals are clear. “Our goal is to continue running the clinic and further our mission to reduce overpopulation. Donations make that possible,” Schmieder emphasizes.
For over a decade, the HSGC spay/neuter clinic has made a substantial impact on the local animal population, preventing the birth of countless unwanted animals and helping provide a brighter future for those waiting for a forever home. Community support remains essential to the success of the Humane Society’s initiatives, as they work to protect and care for the animals who need them most.
You can help!
Funds raised at this year’s Ties & Tails event on November 2 are “earmarked” for the clinic.
For more information, visit geneseehumane.org or email events@geneseehumane.org
