The Michigan Humane Society and Petsmart Charities Offering No-Cost Sterilizations to Owners in Need

The Michigan Humane Society (MHS) sterilized over 1,600 pets at their veterinary centers for free or at reduced cost in 2018 and thanks to a grant from Petsmart Charities, they aim to increase that number in 2019.

PetSmart Charites has awarded the Michigan Humane Society a $50,000 grant to cover sterilization costs for owned pets, with the primary focus on bully breeds and large dogs. Spay/neuter certificates will be issued from the MHS to qualifying residents of Detroit and can be redeemed at any MHS veterinary center.

“We are partnering with PetSmart Charities to assist owners who might be struggling financially get sterilization services for their pets,” said Kelley Meyers, VP of Animal Welfare at the Michigan Humane Society. “Pets are often surrendered to MHS because of behavior issues related to not being sterilized, or because they have unwanted litters or pregnant dogs. It is our goal to keep pets in their homes and offering this service at no cost will help MHS reach that goal.”

“We are proud to continue supporting the work of MHS, which remains a vital resource in the community,” said Kelly Balthazor, regional relationship manager at PetSmart Charities. “Its newest initiative will provide accessible and affordable pet care to Detroit while reducing the strain on community resources.”

PetSmart Charities has supported the Michigan Humane Society’s goals in other ways, including sterilizing 500 pit bulls for families who could not meet the cost of  service  and donating dog and cat food to the MHS Pet Pantry to help keep pets  in their homes.

The sterilization program can be accessed by owners by calling MHS at (866) MHUMANE (648-6263) or mail@michiganhumane.org.