Georgia Department of Agriculture Launches Statewide spay/Neuter Initiative with Successful First Event
McRAE-HELENA, GA - The Georgia Department of Agriculture (GDA) marked a milestone in animal welfare this month by hosting its inaugural low-cost Spay and Neuter Day on Sunday, October 12th, 2025. The event, spearheaded by Agriculture Commissioner Tyler J Harper, provided affordable sterilization services to pet owners in the rural community of McRae-helena.
The initiative addresses a critical need for accessible veterinary care in underserved areas of Georgia, aiming to curb animal overpopulation and support both rural veterinarians and pet owners. A total of 86 animals - 48 dogs and 38 cats – received spay or neuter surgeries during the single-day event, funded through the GDA’s Dog and Cat Sterilization program (DCSP).
“The Georgia Department of Agriculture’s first-ever low-cost spay/neuter day was a great success, and I’m grateful for the hard work and dedication of our GDA CAE team and also The Rescue Ranch’s veterinary team and support staff, who went above and beyond to provide compassionate, high-quality care,” said Commissioner Harper. “Bringing these essential services to rural communities like McRae-Helena-where access to affordable veterinary care is frequently enough limited-allows us to help address animal overpopulation while supporting rural veterinarians and pet-owners.”
The Spay and Neuter Day was held at The Rescue Ranch’s Zerner Stone Spay and Neuter Clinic. The GDA plans to continue partnering with local organizations to expand access to spay and neuter services throughout the state.
Individuals interested in supporting the DCSP and this ongoing effort can make a donation at https://www.agr.georgia.gov/dog-and-cat-sterilization-program-dcsp.
