Spay/Neuter grant program information

The Federation is proud to collaborate with our member organizations to provide essential spay and neuter surgeries, enhancing the well-being of animals and their guardians across Washington State.

Our Spay/Neuter grant program is funded by the sale of Washington State’s SPAY ~ NEUTER ~ ADOPT license plates. This initiative was created to proactively address the pet overpopulation issue. Through an agreement with the State of Washington, proceeds from these special license plates are dedicated exclusively to spay and neuter surgeries for dogs and cats throughout the state.

Since 2007, the Federation has awarded over $615,000 in grant funds to qualified animal welfare organizations across Washington. These funds have facilitated nearly 20,500 spay and neuter surgeries for pets from low-income households, as well as for feral and free-roaming cats, contributing to a healthier and more sustainable pet population.

Spay/Neuter Grant Applicant Criteria

The Federation is committed to working with member organizations to provide spay and neuter surgeries that improve the lives of animals and their guardians in Washington State. If your organization is applying for a Spay/Neuter grant, there are specific requirements and expectations you need to meet upon receiving funding:

1. Compliance/Eligibility 

Grants are only available to organizations. Individual members are not eligible. Applicants must have been a member in good standing for at least one year.

Organizations must adhere to all local and state regulations regarding the spay/neuter surgeries funded by the grant. This includes maintaining proper veterinary standards and ensuring humane treatment of all animals.

By applying for and accepting a Spay/Neuter grant, your organization is making a commitment to help reduce pet overpopulation while maintaining the highest level of accountability and care for the animals in your community.

Membership must be maintained for at least one year before applying.

Funding is available only for nonprofit organizations or municipalities (for-profit entities are not eligible).

Grant applications will be accepted twice a year – March 31 and September 30

2.   Use of Funds

Grant funds must be used exclusively for spay and neuter surgeries for dogs and cats. Eligible populations include pets from low-income owners and feral or free-roaming cats. The funds are to be utilized in a manner that aligns with the Federation’s mission to address pet overpopulation.

3.   Grant Reporting

Organizations receiving a grant must provide regular and timely reports on the use of funds. This includes detailed data on the number of surgeries performed, the types of animals treated, and the outcomes achieved. Accurate documentation is essential to ensure transparency and the ongoing success of the program.

4.   Collaboration

Grantees are expected to collaborate closely with the Federation, including attending meetings or providing additional information when requested. Regular communication ensures that funds are being used effectively to meet program goals.

5.   Public Acknowledgment

To raise awareness of the SPAY ~ NEUTER ~ ADOPT license plate initiative, grant recipients are required to acknowledge the Federation and the license plate program in public-facing communications, including press releases, social media, and promotional materials. This recognition helps inform the public of the source of funding and encourages future support for the program.   

6.   Apply for grant

Grant applications are not being accepted at this time. Please check back soon.