Government Supports Free Spay and Neuter Initiative for Dogs and Cats
ORANJESTAD – Prime Minister Mike Eman recently visited a free spay and neuter clinic held at Scol Graf von Zinzendorf.
The initiative is aimed at improving animal welfare and reducing the number of stray dogs and cats on Aruba.
The campaign was organized through a partnership between Luna Foundation Aruba, Crossroads Animal Aid, Paws United, and the Stimami Sterilisami Foundation. Thanks to funding provided by the Stimami Sterilisami Foundation, which covered the cost of the medications used during the procedures, all services were offered free of charge.
During his visit, Prime Minister Eman expressed his appreciation for the dedication of the volunteers and participating organizations.
"Aruba is fortunate to have this wonderful initiative led by Zoey and a team of volunteers from the United States. A group of 55 veterinary professionals has come together to spay and neuter dogs and cats while also providing health examinations. The Royal Netherlands Navy also brings in dogs and cats that have been found on the streets. We are here to show our support for this important initiative. Aruba continues to face the challenge of too many stray dogs and cats. This is harmful not only to the animals but also to our community. It is not the way we want to care for our animals or our island," the Prime Minister said.
Karyn Franz, founder of Crossroads Animal Aid, explained that the organization is entirely volunteer-driven and committed to improving animal welfare while helping control the stray animal population.
"Crossroads Animal Aid is a nonprofit organization made up of volunteers who are passionate about animal welfare and believe that spaying and neutering is the most effective and humane way to address pet overpopulation. Throughout the year, we organize veterinary missions like this one to help prevent more dogs and cats from ending up on the streets," Franz said.
Kelly Reagan, a veterinarian and member of the U.S. veterinary team, emphasized the importance of international cooperation and the positive impact these programs can have on animal welfare.
"There is a network of veterinarians across the United States who are specially trained to perform a high volume of spay and neuter surgeries in a short period of time. Whenever we have the opportunity to share our expertise with countries facing significant stray animal challenges, we know we can make a meaningful difference," Reagan said.