An event of prevention helps cure a pound

Sometimes, good Samaritans and first-time pet owners get blindsided. Before committing to pet ownership or feeding a scrawny stray, many consider the cost of food, toys and possibly litter; but, few investigate the annual cost of medical care.

The cost of feeding feral cats can be highly variable based on the number who appear and those who can be caught for a rabies shot or sterilization. But, the ASPCA estimates the first year of cat ownership costs approximately $1,050. Depending on size and grooming requirements, the first year of dog ownership ranges from $1,300 to $1,900.

Granted, Minou or Fideaux might be able to survive without a designer pet carrier, gourmet treats or weekly kitty or doggie spa treatment. However, even a “free” puppy, kitten or adult requires annual vaccinations, flea and heartworm preventive that run approximately $100 to $300 annually plus a one-time spay/neuter fee of $60 to $250.

If an owner or feral feeder fails to invest in preventive health care, the treatment for a sick or pregnant animal can become exponentially more costly—both financially and emotionally. The overwhelming expense and responsibility prompts some pet owners to abandon their animals on the streets or at area shelters. At the shelter, the pets’ temperament might make them suitable for adoption. However, the prohibitive cost of treating their illnesses or lack of personnel, time and space to monitor a newborn litter is likely to result in euthanization.

To help pet owners stop the cycle of pet pregnancy, illness, abandonment, suffering and euthanization before it starts, a group of animal advocates is hosting its first Free Basic Shots & Food For Cats & Dogs event at the Leo S. Butler Community Center from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. this Saturday.

The catalyst for the event was a partnership between local animal welfare non-profits and Humane Society of the United States’ nationwide outreach initiative, which procured the free vaccines and food for the event. “HSUS’ Building Humane Communities Program focuses on providing services and resources to underserved communities,” explains Amanda Arrington, the program’s associate director.

To select a site convenient to pet owners most likely to need assistance, the consortium consulted the U.S. Census, which indicated individuals in the 70802 zip code had the area’s lowest median income.

At the event, Halo and freekibble.com will distribute two bags of free dog or cat food to each pet owner. HousePet HouseVet will provide free basic shots on site. Project Purr BR, YelpBR!, Baton Rouge Area Rescue Bank and CAAWS representatives will offer information, referrals and assistance. The Pit Krewe rescue will microchip and supply free collars for pitbulls. And, Baton Rouge Spay/Neuter will make surgical appointments for pet owners who qualify for Spay Baton Rouge services.

In the past five years, Spay Baton Rouge has provided low-cost sterilization services for nearly 9,000 animals belonging to both feral feeders and low-income individuals. Still, “A lot of people don’t get their animals fixed,” founder Sandra DiTusa says. “We’re hoping this event will build up goodwill in the community and raise awareness about our program, which allows all Baton Rougeans access to spay and neuter. There is no need for unwanted litters.”

For more information, call 772-8609.

To help Spay Baton Rouge defray the $50 per animal spay/neuter cost, visit spaybatonrouge.org.

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