Georgia Agriculture Commissioner Gary W. Black has announced the issuance of $700,000 in grants to assist with spaying and neutering Georgia’s companion animal population. Eligible applicants can complete the online application for grant funds beginning May 1.  

  “The rising costs of pet sterilization often burden animal protection agencies and pet owners across the state,” Commissioner Black said. “These grants support safe communities and promote healthy animal populations.” 

  For the first time, the GDA will utilize an online-only application. State-licensed animal shelters, animal rescue organizations and veterinary associations are eligible to apply for grant funds. Applicants must reside in Georgia and licensed Georgia veterinarians must perform all procedures. The program is funded by the purchase of the Dog and Cat Sterilization Auto Tag, income tax checkoff, and direct contributions to the program. Since its inception, the program has helped to spay and neuter more than 100,000 companion animals.

  Grants are awarded based on the highest priority after considering factors such as targeting critical animal populations, the ability to increase surgical numbers, cost-benefit ratio, record of grant applicant and sustainability.

  The online application will be available May 1-June 1, 2020 at http://agr.georgia.gov/dog-cat-sterilization-program.aspx.

  For more information, to obtain an application or to make a tax-exempt donation to the Dog and Cat Sterilization Program, visit http://agr.georgia.gov/dog-cat-sterilization-program.aspx, or email us at DCSP@agr.georgia.gov.