Helping Pets, One Street at a Time
Local family foundation grants funding for “spay streeT” community outreach program
Funding from the Mills Dennis Family Foundation will bring education, resources, and free spay/neuter to the doorsteps of needy pet owners
In 2009, 728 dogs and cats living in Austin neighborhoods with high rates of animal cruelty, neglect, and homelessness, were spayed/neutered, vaccinated, and provided with basic wellness services through an innovative outreach program called Spay Street. This partnership between Emancipet and the City of Austin was created and piloted last year to help reduce the number of pets that end up at the City’s Town Lake Animal Center. Encouraged by the success of the program, and motivated by the thousands of animals that still need help, Emancipet decided to seek community support and funding to continue Spay Street for a second year.
During a visit to Emancipet late last year, Bonnie, the President of the Mills Dennis Family Foundation, met a little puppy who had come in through the Spay Street program. He had no name, no collar, and had never been to a vet before. Seeing the reality of life for pets in Austin’s poorest neighborhoods, Bonnie decided to get involved.
“I chose to support the program because I believe in prevention, and trust that Emancipet is a well-run, results-oriented yet compassionate organization. I believe that all of us bear responsibility for taking care of each other and our community. Pets and animals are part of our community and deserve to be treated with dignity and care. Assisting those who cannot afford high-cost pet care is the right thing to do,” said Bonnie.
With the generous $40,000 grant from The Mills Dennis Family Foundation and continued support from the City of Austin, Emancipet will be able to serve an additional 900 animals this year and will be able to reduce animal homeless and suffering one street at a time.
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