KENTISH COUNCIL AND NATIONAL DESEXING NETWORK
LAUNCH SUBSIDISED DESEXING PROGRAM TO PREVENT UNWANTED CATS
Kentish Council (supported by a co-funding grant from the Cradle Coast Authority), the National Desexing Network and participating vet clinics have joined forces to offer residents in need a subsidised desexing program to help prevent unwanted cats.
From 1 February 2024, eligible Kentish Council residents can have their cat desexed and microchipped for free.
The program, managed by the National Desexing Network (an initiative of the Animal Welfare League Queensland), is available to Kentish Council residents with a valid pension, concession or healthcare card; low income; with too many pets; adopting a stray or taking ownership of an unowned cat. Residents who need support phone the National Desexing Network on 1300 368 992 and if eligible will be issued with a desexing voucher and then contact the participating vet to make an appointment.
The National Desexing Network urges residents to get their cats desexed between 2 and 4 months of age as female cats can become pregnant from just 4 months old and can breed continuously after that. Male cats are less likely to fight, roam and spray when desexed.
These subsidies are available only while Council funds last.
Mayor Kate Haberleencourages residents in need to take advantage of this proactive program.
“This initiative helps the whole community as it reduces unwanted litters and helps reduce cat nuisance issues and predation on native wildlife,” she said.
“Desexing not only helps to ensure fewer unwanted animals, but research shows that desexed animals can live longer and healthier lives,” she said.
“Westbury Veterinary Centre and Deloraine Veterinary Centre areparticipating in this program for Kentish Council residents and the National Desexing Network, Council and the Cradle Coast Authority thank the local veterinary clinics for helping with this community service.”
The National Desexing Network manages year-round Cooperative Desexing Programs free of charge for a growing number of Councils around Australia and in Gold Coast City, the second largest council in Australia, ongoing desexing programs helped achieve zero euthanasia of all healthy and treatable stray and surrendered cats and dogs.
For Council media interview and photo opportunities: Mayor Kate Haberle on 0439 911 649 or Kylie Ashley, Regional Cat Management Coordinator with the Cradle Coast Authority on 03 6433 8440.
For further information about the program: Tracey Francis, NDN Manager – ndnmanager@awlqld.com.au.