VT Spay Neuter Incentive Program

The VT Spay Neuter Incentive Program aka “VSNIP”, under the oversight of the VT Economic Services Department, is administered by VT Volunteer Services for Animals Humane Society (VVSA). VSNIP helps financially challenged Vermont residents spay/neuter cats and dogs for $27.00. The balance is paid by fellow Vermonters when dogs are licensed by an added $4.00 fee, the major funding for this important program. Funds are determined by the number of dogs licensed, which is required by law when a dog is six months of age. A current rabies vaccination is required to register, and a rabies vaccination can be administered after 12 weeks of age for both cats and dogs.

Prostrate and mammary cancer is more likely to occur in unsterilized cats and dogs. It’s not pretty and they’re likely to die. Animals live longer and happier when they’re spayed and neutered, are less likely to fight for territory, and mark what they claim to be “theirs”!

Licensing a dog: 1) helps identify your dog if lost, 2) provides proof your dog is protected from rabies in the event your dog is bitten by a rabid animal, but would still need immediate medical attention, 3) if your dog bites an animal or person – which could result in quarantine or possible euthanasia to test for infection, and 4) helps pay for VSNIP, addressing the population situation in Vermont.

Farms with cats should especially be aware that one rabid cat or dog can affect an entire population of animals on the premise. The answer is neutering through VSNIP which includes a rabies vaccination and the first of the two part distemper series.

Look for Rabies Clinics in March across the state. You can call your veterinarian and ask the cost of a rabies vaccination only, or call your nearest Tractor Supply Store for their Monthly Rabies Clinic schedule. Rabies IS in Vermont and it IS deadly.

To receive a VSNIP Application, send a 9” S.A.S.E to: VSNIP, PO Box 104, Bridgewater, VT 05034. Indicate if it’s for a cat, dog or both. For more information, call 802-672-5302.

Please visit our website: https://dcf.vermont.gov/benefits/vsnip

VVSA will be hosting Rabies Clinics in March. Call for dates and locations.

 The animals thank you in advance! Together We Truly Do Make A Difference!!

  Sue Skaskiw, VVSA Humane Society Executive Director/VSNIP Administrator