RSPCA urges vets to join sterilisation program after one vet in the Mid West offers discount in Dongara

Mid West veterinarians are being urged to participate in the discounted pet sterilisation program after the RSPCA revealed Dongara was the only clinic to sign up so far.

The Pet Sterilisation Program pilot program began in July and 22 veterinarian clinics across the State have taken part so far. Only one clinic in the Mid West currently offers the discounted sterilisations, funded by the State Government.

Dongara Veterinary Hospital’s Dr Emma Taylor said the Mid West clinic was offering the service to see a reduction in unwanted kittens, puppies and feral litters and to encourage pet owners to sterilise their pet rather than put it off.

“The practice has implemented the RSPCA assistance scheme to increase the amount of cats and dogs sterilised and reduce the number of stray or unwanted animals in the Mid West area,” she said.

“The program has already proven helpful for many clients who have had their pets sterilised and microchipped utilising the RSPCA subsidy.”

The subsidy offers eligible pet owners up to a 75 per cent discount to sterilise and microchip their cats or dogs who might otherwise not be able to afford the vet bills.

RSPCA media and communications co-ordinator Alex Newbigin said the pilot program was still very new and all clinics had yet to be contacted about signing up to the project.

“We are working to reach out to all clinics across WA and have those conversations,” she said.

“We really encourage vets in the region to chat to our local inspector or someone at our head office in Perth if they have any questions.”

To date, more than 300 sterilisation discount vouchers have been issued under the program, with around 110 redeemed.

The discount is available to WA Seniors Card, Pension Concession Card and Health Care Card holders until June 30, 2023.