236 surgeries done in successful SHS spay/neuter clinic

Saipan Humane Society’s February Spay and Neuter Clinic from Feb. 5 to 15 at the Koblerville Community Center was “overwhelmingly successful,” with a total of 236 surgeries done in just 10 days, said SHS clinic manager Ruby Ma.

Thanks to the collaborative efforts of SHS staff/volunteers, visiting veterinarians, and the Saipan Dog Control Program staff, 36 cats and 106 dogs were spayed, and 29 cats and 65 dogs were neutered. Spaying is the sterilization of female pets; neutering is for male pets.

According to the SHS team, “this tremendous effort is projected to prevent a staggering 7,303,000 unwanted puppies over the next six years.”

In addition to the spay/neuter surgeries, the clinic performed six special surgeries—including three amputations, one eye removal, and two lump removals. The team also conducted 209 wellness visits, administered 88 dewormers, 102 flea/tick treatments, and addressed 182 medical concerns.

SHS expresses their heartfelt appreciation to everyone who contributed to this achievement, with immense gratitude to visiting veterinarian Dr. Jessica Nelson and licensed veterinary technician Lauren Ruiz from the Banfield organization.

A significant aspect of the clinic was the financial sponsorship provided to support eight shelter dogs, 44 owned pets (including 29 dogs, five puppies, and 10 cats). SHS also expresses its deep gratitude to animal advocate Boonie Babies for their efforts in promoting the GoFundMe spay and neuter campaign and facilitating community involvement in controlling animal overpopulation.

The organization also thanked the Saipan Mayor’s Office and its Animal Shelter/Dog Control Program for their invaluable support throughout the preparation, surgery, and logistics phases of the clinic.

SHS also thanks the Office of Youth Affairs for the use of the Koblerville Community Center and accommodating their clinic hours, greatly enhancing accessibility for the community.

“The success of the clinic was further bolstered by the generous contributions of various sponsors. Thanks to Spicy Thai, Original Lucky Bill, The Shack, American Pizza and Grill, Godfather’s Bar, and Great Harvest for feeding our hardworking team, sustaining energy levels during the busy clinic days,” said SHS.

“Special appreciation goes to [Atkins Kroll Saipan] for sponsoring the vehicle for Dr. Sam Warner during her volunteer work in the second week of the spay and neuter clinic. Additionally, Pacific Eco, the laundry sponsor, ensured that all surgical and recovery clothing was impeccably clean,” added SHS.

“We express sincere gratitude to all volunteers who played a pivotal role in making the clinic run smoothly, aiding in the recovery of animal’s post-surgery, and capturing the memorable moments through photographs and videos,” said Ma.

As for the future, SHS is excited to announce plans to move to a larger facility this year. It is still in the works, so stay tuned for more details. This expansion aims to increase service capacity and business hours, allowing the organization to better serve the community’s needs.

For more information about SHS and its initiatives, visit www.saipanhumanesociety.org/.