By Marlene McTigue
Capital Region Independent Media
NEW BALTIMORE — Area residents gathered last Saturday at the town hall for a reduced-cost spay and neuter clinic for cats, organized by Town Councilwoman Janet Kash, chairperson of the Animal Control Committee.
The event aimed to address a feline overpopulation problem in the area, a cause Kash has worked on for decades.
In partnership with Upstate Spay and Neuter Services, a mobile surgical unit was stationed at Town Hall from 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. The clinic offered spay or neuter surgeries for $90, which also included a one-year rabies vaccine.
A total of 36 cats, both companion and feral, were treated during the clinic, contributing to efforts to stem feline overpopulation and reduce the suffering of feral cats in the community.
Local pet owners were enthusiastic about the event, with Ravena resident Deana Ferrusi sharing how important the clinic was for her.
“It is very expensive to get animals spayed or neutered, and I want to be responsible because there are too many animals out there,” Ferrusi said. “So, this just worked out really nicely.”
Ferrusi brought her black cat, Panther, after finding out about the clinic on Facebook, and she praised the clinic employees.
“The staff were fantastic. They were so sweet and super helpful,” she said.
Additionally, rabies and distemper vaccines were offered to both cats and dogs. Dogs were required to be licensed, and pet owners were given the option to complete the necessary paperwork on-site if needed.
Kash emphasized the importance of the event, highlighting how spay and neuter surgeries, which typically cost hundreds of dollars, were offered at a significantly reduced rate to ease the financial burden on residents.
“We are happy to bring this affordable animal health care option to our community,” Kash said. “Feline overpopulation has been a persistent issue, and providing access to affordable spaying and neutering services is essential for its control.”
Though New Baltimore residents were given registration priority, non-residents could also join the waiting list and many were served. The event helped ensure a brighter future for the town’s feline population while reducing the risk of unwanted litters, according to Kash.
Those interested in future events or who have any questions can contact Town Councilwoman Janet Kash directly at jkash@townofnewbaltimore.org.
