Virgin Islands Spay and Neuter

08/12/2024

Woohoo!! Exciting News for Our Community!

We’re thrilled to announce that VISN has 20 cat traps and a drop trap ordered and on the way to enhance our TNR (Trap-Neuter-Return) and community spay/neuter efforts on St Thomas.

TNR is a humane and effective way to manage and reduce feral cat populations. By trapping, neutering, and then returning these cats to their colonies, we not only help control the population but also improve their overall health and well-being.

The benefits of TNR extend beyond just the cats. It leads to fewer stray cats in our neighborhoods, reduces nuisance behaviors, and helps protect local wildlife. Plus, it fosters a compassionate community where we take care of our animal friends!

Stay tuned for more updates on our TNR initiatives and how you can get involved! We’ll be assembling a volunteer trap and transport team soon.

These items were purchased from our Amazon Wishlist https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/2KR2GOXTU1HTA?ref_=wl_share

03/12/2024

A HUGE heartfelt thank you from Virgin Islands Spay and Neuter! We are incredibly grateful for and proud to be a part of such a supportive community. Your contributions, whether financial or through your time, are making a significant impact in improving the lives of so many animals here on St Thomas. Together, we are creating a brighter future for our whole community.

Did you know? Even though we’re still in our first year as an organization we:
- are a volunteer run team
- offer low cost spay/neuter, vaccinations, and microchipping
- have provided high-quality spay/neuter and wellness care to 350 animals
- assist community members with trapping and transport
- provide pre and post surgical support
- couldn’t do what we do without you!

02/12/2024

**🌟 Spay It Forward! 🌟**

This Giving Tuesday, let’s make a powerful impact together! 🐾

Join us in our mission to reduce pet overpopulation and promote responsible pet ownership in the St Thomas. By choosing to spay or neuter your pets, you’re not just helping them live healthier lives—you’re also making a difference for countless animals in need!

**Here’s how you can Spay It Forward:**
1. **Donate:** Every dollar helps provide spay and neuter services to pets in our community. And thanks to a generous anonymous donor, up to $1,000 in total contributions will be matched. That means your gift will go twice as far in helping us provide spay and neuter services to pets in need!

2. **Share the Love:** Post a photo of your spayed/neutered pets with the hashtags and and tell us why you support this important cause!

3. **Encourage Others:** Tag your friends and family to spread the word about the benefits of spaying and neutering.

Don’t forget to donate and share!

Together, we can create a brighter future for our furry friends! Thank you for your support!

10/11/2024

If you are on St John, please take advantage of this free event!!

Tomorrow is the last day and no appointments are necessary.

Spread the word.

It is the final countdown till we kick off the largest spay/neuter event ever to happen on St. John.

From November 8-11 from 8am-3pm at the GHS upper campus Gym with the wonderful help of Visiting Veterinarians International the ACC will be offering free spay/neuter to dog and cat owners on St. John. AGAIN IT IS FREE TO THE PUBLIC! If you would like to get your pet spay/neutered you can show up on any of these dates from 8am-3pm with your pet. You do not need to make a reservation, it is first come first serve, and you are required to wait with your pet while they are spay/neutered and come out of recovery.

The ACC will also be trapping a large number feral cats across the island, and we are preparing for hundreds of cats for this event.

We will be working around the clock from Wednesday-Monday. If you stop by the office, call or send a message and we are slow to respond we will do our best to get back to you ASAP. If you stop by the office and its closed we are either out trapping or up at the event at GHS.

We are still collecting donations for this event to make it as successful as possible, and hopefully provide more events like this in the future. https://www.stjohnanimalcarecenter.com/donate/

Thank you to Visiting Veterinarians International , Gifft Hill School, and all donors who have made this event possible.

04/11/2024

If you are on St John, this is a great opportunity to get your animals spayed and neutered!

For more information on this event, please contact the ACC at 340-774-1625.

It is the final countdown till we kick off the largest spay/neuter event ever to happen on St. John.

From November 8-11 from 8am-3pm at the GHS upper campus Gym with the wonderful help of Visiting Veterinarians International the ACC will be offering free spay/neuter to dog and cat owners on St. John. AGAIN IT IS FREE TO THE PUBLIC! If you would like to get your pet spay/neutered you can show up on any of these dates from 8am-3pm with your pet. You do not need to make a reservation, it is first come first serve, and you are required to wait with your pet while they are spay/neutered and come out of recovery.

The ACC will also be trapping a large number feral cats across the island, and we are preparing for hundreds of cats for this event.

We will be working around the clock from Wednesday-Monday. If you stop by the office, call or send a message and we are slow to respond we will do our best to get back to you ASAP. If you stop by the office and its closed we are either out trapping or up at the event at GHS.

We are still collecting donations for this event to make it as successful as possible, and hopefully provide more events like this in the future. https://www.stjohnanimalcarecenter.com/donate/

Thank you to Visiting Veterinarians International , Gifft Hill School, and all donors who have made this event possible.

29/10/2024

Someone recently asked about ear tipping. We thought Alley Cat Allies’s post was extremely timely!

29/10/2024

After yesterday’s sucessful clinic with 24 cats (plus a bonus cat that was already fixed), we’d like to say a GIANT thank you to all those that care for community animals.

We want to shine a light on the incredible caretakers of our stray, neighborhood, colony, and community animals, not just on St Thomas, but everywhere! Caring for all of these often neglected and vulnerable animals is a labor of love, we recognize that it can be both time and resource-intensive.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all of the amazing volunteers who dedicate their time to providing for, trapping, and transporting these animals. Your commitment is truly inspiring.

Thank you for advocating for our community by getting them fixed. Your work saves lives and helps create a better future for everyone.

Trappers and caregivers often go unrecognized, but we want you to know that we couldn’t do what we do without you. Together, we are making a difference!

If you’d like to learn more about TNR (trap-neuter-return), and about joining our volunteer trapping team, please send us a message.

28/10/2024

Thank you The Kitten Fight Club for all you do :) these two little fighters now have the opportunity to find forever homes filled with snuggles.

27/10/2024

🌞 We're all set for today's spay and neuter clinic, with 25 cats on the schedule!

While we’re optimistic for a smooth day, we’re taking extra precautions due to the Water and Power Authority (WAPA) announcing rolling outages—time, duration, and frequency unknown.

Here’s how we're staying prepared:
- Drop-off and pick-up times may change, but our team will stay in contact with you.
- We’ve borrowed an EcoFlow portable solar battery system to keep the clinic running smoothly.
- Clamp lights with extension cords are on hand for reliable lighting.
- Our team has packed headlamps for hands-free visibility.
- Extra ice chests have been stocked to keep our vaccines cold and surgical warmies warm.

Our focus remains on providing affordable, accessible, high-quality care for all pets. 🐾 Let’s make today a successful and safe experience for everyone involved!

Stay safe and see you at the clinic!

26/10/2024

While we may have been a bit quiet lately, our team has been hard at work making a difference! In September, we proudly hosted 2 clinics that provided care for **56 animals**, including dogs, cats, and rabbits! We’re gearing up for another clinic tomorrow.

We want to extend a special shout-out to:
**Dr. Heidi** for her unwavering dedication and expertise at every clinic,
**Dr. Karen** for her exceptional rabbit spaying skillls,
**Emily of Triple H Horse Ranch** for her invaluable trapping and transportation support,
**Margaritaville Vacation Properties, St. Thomas** for their compassionate care of the cats on their property,
**Canines, Cats, and Critters Vet** for their ongoing support,
**Faye of Love City Lunch Box** for keeping our team fueled and energized,
And of course, **Our Incredible Volunteers** who keep the heart of VISN beating strong!

Together, we are making a positive impact on the lives of these animals. Stay tuned for more updates and ways to get involved!

Canines, Cats & Critters - St Thomas
Margaritaville, Margaritaville St. Thomas
Triple H Ranch USVI
The Kitten Fight Club
Off The Rocks Animal Rescue
Love City Lunch Box
Stormy Pirates Boat Charters
Community Foundation of the Virgin Islands
Banfield Foundation

29/08/2024

**Need Help with Colony Animals or Want to Add an Animal to Our Waitlist?**

Our amazing team of volunteers is dedicated to helping our furry friends, but we need your support to keep things organized! If you’re looking to add an animal to our waitlist or need assistance with colony animals, please take a moment to fill out our online form.

🔗 https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfDv5_gGVnobhWEWG9s1-MrNWk6RHbMoCG2WfnQd0bRLGgPYQ/viewform

Using the form helps us ensure all of the requests get into one spot, allowing us to assist you more efficiently. Remember, our volunteers balance their passion for helping animals with full-time jobs, so your cooperation is immensely appreciated!

Thank you for being a part of our compassionate community and for supporting our mission at VI Spay and Neuter!

This form is also available to access in multiple locations on our website.

Thank you for reaching out!

28/08/2024

There are just a few days remaining!!

Donate before August 31st and Stormy Pirates Boat Charters will match any donations up to $2500. We are almost there!!!

06/08/2024

We have an Exciting Announcement!

VI Spay Neuter is thrilled to share that we have been awarded a Medical Equipment Grant from Banfield Foundation! This generous support will help us purchase the equipment needed to launch pop-up community spay/neuter and wellness vaccine clinics.

With this grant, we’re one step closer to fulfilling our mission of providing affordable, accessible, high-quality services for our community.

Stay tuned for more details on when and where we’ll be offering these vital services on St Thomas. Together, we are making a difference!

Banfield Foundation

01/08/2024

Thank you to everyone that helped with last weekend’s clinic on July 27th and 28th!!

It was some great community teamwork that enabled us to spay/neuter 54 animals for free, and provide low-cost wellness care for an additional 7.

Special shout outs to the following:
Canines, Cats & Critters - St Thomas for use of facilities,
Stray Rescue of St. Louis’s Dr Oliver and surgical tech Sarah,
Pet Search’s Sherry, Kent, and Jane Ann,
Veterinary Centers of the VI for use of additional instruments so we could keep up with the surgical team,
Annette for helping to spearhead logistics of the Stray Rescue team’s visit,
June Raymond Marsh for providing accommodations for the visiting vet team,
Amalia Car Rental, Sun&Sea Bar and Grille, The Kitten Fight Club, Pets with Wings, Emily of Triple H Ranch USVI, and Banfield Foundation.

Keep checking in to learn more about our next clinic opportunities.

20/07/2024

In less than 48 hours, the available slots for next week’s clinic are almost full! If you’re having difficulty making an appointment, please send us an email or complete the link on our website to be added to our waitlist.

There is a HUGE need for spay/neuter assistance. We are doing our best to safely accommodate as many animals as possible.

Thank you to our amazing community for your support in curbing pet overpopulation. We hope clinics like this can become a more regular occurance!

20 July 2024 8:45pm Update:

At this time, most of the available appointment slots have been filled. If you’re having difficulty making an appointment, please send us an email at [email protected] or complete the link on our website ASAP to be added to our waitlist. Our team is working to safely accommodate as many animals as possible.

We understand that there is a HUGE need for spay/neuter assistance. Thank you to our amazing community for your support in curbing pet overpopulation. We hope clinics like this can become a more regular occurance!

PRESS RELEASE

VIRGIN ISLANDS SPAY AND NEUTER OFFERS FREE CLINIC FOR PET OWNERS

19 July 2024, for immediate release

Virgin Islands Spay and Neuter (VISN) will offer FREE spay or neuter surgery for St. Thomas dogs by appointment, on 27-28 July 2024. Dog owners can visit the website at www.vispayneuter.org to register for an appointment or call VISN staff at 340-209-9916.

All pets must have appointments, there will be no walk-in services available. Owners will have the option to have their pet vaccinated and microchipped for a small fee at the time of surgery. Spaying your female dog, or neutering a male dog, prevents them from making more puppies.

This Free Spay and Neuter Clinic is made possible by generous donations by an anonymous dog lover, a Banfield Veterinary Medical Equipment Grant, Stray Rescue St. Louis is providing a veterinarian and vet tech that specialize in High Quality High Volume Spay and Neuter, and their travel is gratefully supported by June and Steve Marsh and Amalie Car Rental.

“Many people value the benefits of altering their pets but can’t afford the high cost of the surgery. Not only does it protect your pet’s health and reduce the tendency to roam, but it also means your dog won’t have an unplanned litter. Island organizations are struggling to care for and find homes for too many unwanted puppies and kittens,” said Donna Nemeth, VISN co-founder and treasurer.

Virgin Islands Spay and Neuter, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit started in December 2023, has already helped 168 cats and dogs to lead healthier lives and reduce the island’s growing population of stray puppies and kittens. We assist pet owners as well as help caretakers of cat colonies with trapping, surgery and return of feral cats. The small team of dedicated volunteers has been able to offer an average of one spay and neuter clinic per month by partnering with Canines, Cats, and Critters on days they are closed for services.

Visit www.vispayneuter.org or call 340-209-9916 to learn more about VISN, get on a waitlist for future clinics, or make a tax-deductible donation to keep our services affordable for the VI community.

19/07/2024

20 July 2024 8:45pm Update:

At this time, most of the available appointment slots have been filled. If you’re having difficulty making an appointment, please send us an email at [email protected] or complete the link on our website ASAP to be added to our waitlist. Our team is working to safely accommodate as many animals as possible.

We understand that there is a HUGE need for spay/neuter assistance. Thank you to our amazing community for your support in curbing pet overpopulation. We hope clinics like this can become a more regular occurance!

PRESS RELEASE

VIRGIN ISLANDS SPAY AND NEUTER OFFERS FREE CLINIC FOR PET OWNERS

19 July 2024, for immediate release

Virgin Islands Spay and Neuter (VISN) will offer FREE spay or neuter surgery for St. Thomas dogs by appointment, on 27-28 July 2024. Dog owners can visit the website at www.vispayneuter.org to register for an appointment or call VISN staff at 340-209-9916.

All pets must have appointments, there will be no walk-in services available. Owners will have the option to have their pet vaccinated and microchipped for a small fee at the time of surgery. Spaying your female dog, or neutering a male dog, prevents them from making more puppies.

This Free Spay and Neuter Clinic is made possible by generous donations by an anonymous dog lover, a Banfield Veterinary Medical Equipment Grant, Stray Rescue St. Louis is providing a veterinarian and vet tech that specialize in High Quality High Volume Spay and Neuter, and their travel is gratefully supported by June and Steve Marsh and Amalie Car Rental.

“Many people value the benefits of altering their pets but can’t afford the high cost of the surgery. Not only does it protect your pet’s health and reduce the tendency to roam, but it also means your dog won’t have an unplanned litter. Island organizations are struggling to care for and find homes for too many unwanted puppies and kittens,” said Donna Nemeth, VISN co-founder and treasurer.

Virgin Islands Spay and Neuter, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit started in December 2023, has already helped 168 cats and dogs to lead healthier lives and reduce the island’s growing population of stray puppies and kittens. We assist pet owners as well as help caretakers of cat colonies with trapping, surgery and return of feral cats. The small team of dedicated volunteers has been able to offer an average of one spay and neuter clinic per month by partnering with Canines, Cats, and Critters on days they are closed for services.

Visit www.vispayneuter.org or call 340-209-9916 to learn more about VISN, get on a waitlist for future clinics, or make a tax-deductible donation to keep our services affordable for the VI community.

15/07/2024

Thank you Stormy Pirates Boat Charters!
Donations can also be made through our PayPal. Don’t forget to mention Stormy Pirates in your donation!

https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=T9YPBF6879SUE

13/06/2024

The summer heat is here! Please take caution with yourself and the animals in your care. We know that WAPA isn’t making it easy to stay cool. 🥵 Some tips and tricks we can learn from our animal companions:

- naps on the cool tile are 😘 they’re even better when in front of a fan or the a/c 💨

- shade can save your life! 🌴 🌞 🌴 The temperature difference between sun and shade can be significant; especially around areas with lots of concrete or asphalt as those surfaces retain and radiate heat long after the sun goes down.

- take time to hang out in the water. 🌊 💦 Water can help cool your body much more quickly than just the air around you.

As always, please make sure plenty of fresh water and shade are available at all times, and avoid activities outside during the day/early evening.

Did you know? The temperature of asphalt and concrete can easily be 15-20° hotter than what the air feels like. That means paws and feet will burn quickly. If you can’t comfortably hold the back of your hand on the surface for at least 5 seconds then it is too hot to go for a walk. 🔥🔥🔥🌡️