United We Spay Stacy LeBaron

Get the secrets to combating pet overpopulation and discover how spay-neuter programs are a practical solution for communities nationwide.
On this episode of United We Spay, join Stacy as she teams up with Cheri Storms from Pet Friendly Services of Indiana to scrutinize the reproductive rates of cats and dogs that lead to shelter overflows. You’ll hear how their organization champions the fight through financial assistance and voucher programs. We discuss the overwhelming demand for their services and the need for accessible spay-neuter options, especially for low-income pet owners. We also tackle the challenges different geographical areas face, pinpointing why a one-size-fits-all approach isn't feasible for urban and rural settings.
We also acknowledge the elephant in the room: the veterinary shortage crisis in the U.S. Stacy highlights the United Spay Alliance's Veterinary Shortage Task Force, which is paving the way for innovative solutions to bridge the gap in animal healthcare. We consider introducing roles similar to physician's assistants to support the strained workforce and emphasize the urgency for collaboration and creativity in preparing for the inevitable veterinary and technician scarcities.
By emphasizing preventive care through spay-neuter initiatives, we're easing the strain on shelters and promoting healthier, happier communities for pets and their people. Tune in for the full scope of these issues and the inspiring work being done to address them head-on.
In this episode, you will hear:
Cheri Storms on combating pet overpopulation The role of spay-neuter programs, particularly in Indiana Financial assistance and voucher programs by Pet Friendly Services of Indiana that ensure low-income pet owners can access spay-neuter services Differences in urban and rural challenges for spay-neuter services with unique solutions for each setting The veterinary shortage crisis in the U.S.,  The potential for introducing roles similar to physician's assistants in the veterinary field Spay-neuter initiatives as cost-effective and preventative measures that benefit shelters and communities An overwhelming demand for spay-neuter services and the rapid filling of available slots for procedures each week Community-level programs using collaboration and innovation to address the vet and technician shortages projected for the next decades Resources from this Episode
Feline Fix by Five: www.unitedspayalliance.org/feline-fix-by-five Pet Friendly Services of Indiana: https://petfriendlyservices.org/ Follow and Review:
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Episode Credits
If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.

Join the fight against pet overpopulation as we unpack the power of spay-neuter initiatives with animal welfare advocates Kit O'Doherty and Judie Mancuso.
On this episode of United We Spay, Kit's front-line experiences in California blend with Judie's legislative expertise to highlight the urgency of accessible spay-neuter services. They are an aspect of animal healthcare and a vital public service. This episode reveals how these preventative measures can better the lives of pets and communities.
We explore why efforts in Massachusetts struggled initially and how targeted campaigns eventually led to a dramatic shift in shelter intake statistics. Kit and Judie discuss the financial and systemic advantages of prioritizing spay-neuter practices over traditional adoption models, especially their cost-effectiveness and broader impact on pet overpopulation. We consider the challenges within the veterinary system and draw parallels to the mental health crisis in addressing systemic issues.
As the conversation wraps up, we shift to the boots-on-the-ground experience of political advocacy for animal welfare legislation. Judie's hope for bipartisan support competes with Kit's reflections on the hurdles animal rescuers face with traditional advocacy methods. This discussion reveals the importance of supporting legislative champions dedicated to the animal welfare cause.
Whether you're an animal lover, a policy advocate, or passionate about public service, this episode will stir your sense of responsibility toward our four-legged friends.
In this episode, you will hear:
Kit O'Doherty and Judie Mancuso on the impact of spay-neuter initiatives on pet overpopulation The potential for a public service revolution in animal welfare Challenges spay-neuter programs face Cost-effectiveness and influence on policy change for animal population control The veterinary shortage in California, its connection to pet overpopulation, and innovative solutions Judie's optimism for bipartisan support for animal welfare legislation in 2024 Kit's frustration with traditional advocacy methods The importance of spay and neuter practices Judie's transition from IT to animal advocacy Kit's experiences in shelter volunteering A strategic focus on legislation and community-based initiatives to promote spay-neuter programs and reduce the burden on shelters and the veterinary industry Resources from this Episode:
Feline Fix by Five: www.unitedspayalliance.org/feline-fix-by-five
Follow and Review:
We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.
Episode Credits:
If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.

Staring into the pleading eyes of an animal in need, you can't help but feel a pull to do something, anything—that's precisely the moment Linda Chitwood knew she had to act.
This episode of United We Spay takes us through the heart of rural North Mississippi, where Linda, the founder of the Homeless Animals Relief Project (HARP), and Denise Bynum, HARP's director, paint a vivid picture of the critical need for affordable spay-neuter services to prevent pet overpopulation. Their conversation with Stacy navigates low-income communities' challenges, with veterinary deserts leaving pet owners desperate for care. Linda shares the turning point that led her to create HARP, while Denise outlines her journey from volunteer to leader, steering the organization's growth in fundraising, networking, and educational efforts.
The warmth in the voices of community members, unable to give much yet eager to support, echoes throughout this episode, showcasing the gratitude for HARP's work. As we weave through Denise's experiences since taking the reins in July 2022, we're reminded of the power of connection and collaboration in animal welfare. Denise's initiatives, like the launch of a newsletter and a burgeoning Facebook presence, have shaped a diverse donor landscape and spotlighted the stories of those who give despite financial hardships.
We also look at the essential partnerships and the infusion of fresh energy from new veterinarians and rescue groups, which are expanding HARP's reach, demonstrating that the fight against pet overpopulation is a battle won through compassion and teamwork.
In this episode, you will hear:
Linda Chitwood’s launch of the Homeless Animals Relief Project in rural North Mississippi Addressing pet overpopulation through affordable spay-neuter services in low-income, veterinary desert areas Denise Bynum’s evolution from volunteer to HARP director Enhancing fundraising, networking, and educational outreach, leading to increased spay/neuter operations and growth in donor support HARP's community impact  Some personal stories of financial struggle and gratitude from those benefitting from HARP’s services Social media initiatives and a new newsletter by Denise meant to broaden HARP's donor base Efforts to attract higher donations and maintain diverse support New partnerships with veterinarians and rescue groups help expand HARP's reach The importance of collaboration in the fight against animal overpopulation Linda and Denise’s personal motivations and stories in animal welfare The urgency of spay/neuter services in rural settings and the growing gap in access compared to urban areas Resources from this Episode:
Visit the Feline Fix By Five website: www.unitedspayalliance.org/feline-fix-by-five
Follow and Review:
We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.
Episode Credits:
If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.

Could the key to transforming animal welfare lie within the simple act of spaying and neutering our pets earlier?
On this episode of United We Spay, we sit down with Esther Mechler and Dr. Phil Bushby, two trailblazers in the fight against pet overpopulation, to unravel the effectiveness of spay and neuter programs and how they align with animal care ethics. Esther, the founding force behind Spay USA and United Spay Alliance, shares her passionate journey towards advocating for the Feline Fix by Five initiative. Dr. Bushby, with decades of veterinary experience, reveals the harsh realities of shelter euthanasia rates he saw in the '70s and champions spaying and neutering as the ethical response to this persistent issue.
In a heart-to-heart that's both enlightening and inspiring, we reflect on the successes of early spay and neuter campaigns, such as the Feline Fix by Five movement, and discuss the landmark meeting of veterinary minds in Orlando in 2016. This gathering marked a turning point, leading to a shift in the recommended age for these vital procedures. We also explore the tangible benefits of the Feline Fix by Five initiative, investigating the welfare improvements and the economic and time-saving advantages for veterinary practices. Esther and Dr. Bushby's dedication to these initiatives is palpable, and their stories are a powerful call to action for all of us to contribute to a future where every pet is wanted, loved, and cared for.
Join the conversation and hear how united efforts can forge a more compassionate world for our four-legged companions.
In this episode, you will hear:
Esther Mechler's path from Spay USA to United Spay Alliance Esther’s commitment to the Feline Fix by Five initiative for reducing shelter overpopulation Dr. Phil Bushby's experience at ASPCA in the '70s with high euthanasia rates The need for early spay and neuter as an ethical solution to pet overpopulation A recap of the landmark Orlando meeting in 2016, where veterinary leaders considered changing the recommended age for spay and neuter procedures to five months Celebrating the Feline Fix by Five campaign's success with unanimous endorsement by National Veterinary Associations The Feline Fix by Five initiative's benefits, including time efficiency for veterinary practices and economic advantages The critical role of early spay and neuter interventions in preventing unwanted feline populations and reducing shelter euthanasia Why veterinarians and clinics should consider joining the Feline Fix by Five program to help ensure every pet has the opportunity for a loving home Resources from this Episode:
Feline Fix by Five - www.unitedspayalliance.org/feline-fix-by-five Sign up to include your veterinary practice on our list of Feline Fix by Five Participating Veterinarians - https://www.unitedspayalliance.org/feline-fix-by-five/get-involved/veterinarian-sign-up/  Follow and Review:
We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.
Episode Credits:
If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.

Are you ready to become a part of something bigger?
On this episode of United We Spay, join us as Stacy explores spay/neuter initiatives in Panama with guest Patricia Chan. From a pioneering woman in the Panama Canal Commission to becoming an advocate for animal welfare, Patricia’s story is inspirational. Hear the story behind Spay Panama, a groundbreaking organization that has spayed or neutered over 320,000 animals, and learn how education plays a significant role in shifting public attitudes toward animal welfare.
We also traverse the intricate logistics of massive spay/neuter events, taking you behind the scenes of Spay Panama's upcoming event, aiming to spay and neuter 700 animals in two days. Imagine a 32-year-old bus serving as a mobile clinic, community involvement at the heart of the initiative, and the unique challenge of a country without animal control.
Become part of our journey as we unravel the inspiring, complex, and gratifying world of animal welfare in Panama.
In this episode, you will hear:
Patrician Chan’s background as the first woman division chief for the Panama Canal Commission Her advocacy for spay/neuter initiatives in Panama and co-founding Spay Panama The challenges Patricia faced and the growth of Spay Panama The importance of education in changing attitudes toward animals Spay Panama's upcoming event and their goal to neuter and spay 700 animals over two days using a converted bus as a mobile clinic Community involvement in spay/neuter initiatives and Panama’s unique lack of animal control, resulting in reliance on volunteers Insight into the operations of Spay Panama, their funding struggles, and how they handle various challenges, including dealing with feral cats and dogs Spay Panama’s efforts to maintain self-sustainability, asking for donations or contributions in kind for their services, and the role of volunteers Advice for those interested in starting spay/neuter initiatives Resources from this Episode:
Spay/Neuter Spotlight: Spay Panama: unitedspayalliance.org/spay/neuter-spotlight-spay-panama Feline Fix by Five program: www.unitedspayalliance.org/feline-fix-by-five Follow and Review:
We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.
Episode Credits:
If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.

In this inaugural episode of United We Spay, host Stacy LeBaron takes us on a journey with Esther Mechler, the founder of United Spay Alliance.
Stacy and Esther delve into the ongoing issue of animal overpopulation and the importance of affordable spay/neuter services in preventing the needless suffering of animals. From the harsh conditions of a rundown shelter to establishing a renowned referral program with 8,000 vets nationwide, Esther's story is an extraordinary tale of compassion and commitment.
You’ll also hear Stacy and Esther discuss the "Feline Fix by Five" campaign, a pioneering initiative that advocates for spaying and neutering cats by five months old. Listen in as they discuss the role of public health officials in addressing cat overpopulation and the critical need for community involvement.
This is a conversation where you can learn how each one of us can make an impact in tackling animal overpopulation.
In this episode, you will hear:
United Spay Alliance founder Esther Mechler’s experience working in a rundown shelter to establishing a referral program involving 8,000 vets nationwide Her goal of addressing animal overpopulation and promoting affordable spay/neuter services The success of the "Feline Fix by Five" campaign, an initiative advocating for cats to be spayed and neutered by five months old The role of public health officials in tackling cat overpopulation The importance of community involvement in promoting spay/neuter services How the concept of "Feline Fix by Five" month can significantly reduce the number of homeless cats How spaying and neutering can be a form of public health for pets Esther’s personal experiences that ignited her passion for animal welfare Being proactive in addressing animal overpopulation, the urgency of the issue, and various ways people can make a difference Resources from this Episode:
Feline Fix by Five program: www.unitedspayalliance.org/feline-fix-by-five United Spay Alliance website: www.unitedspayalliance.org Follow and Review:
We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.
Episode Credits:
If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.