In a recent government meeting, representatives from Tuscarora Feline Friends (TFFF) presented a compelling case for funding their newly established spay and neuter clinic in El Prado, aimed at addressing the growing animal overpopulation crisis in Taos County. Program Director Donna Carr highlighted that the clinic, which opened in May, offers free spay and neuter services, along with vaccinations and microchipping, to all Taos County residents, including members of local pueblos.

Carr emphasized the urgent need for such services, noting that many residents struggle to afford spay and neuter procedures at commercial veterinary clinics, leading to an increase in stray animals. The clinic has already performed over 800 surgeries this year, significantly surpassing the numbers achieved by previous mobile clinics. By the end of the year, TFFF anticipates reaching 2,000 surgeries, which could prevent an estimated 1,000 litters and save the community approximately $5 million in annual pet care costs.

Leanne Mitchell, TFFF's president, reinforced the importance of the clinic not only for animal welfare but also for public safety. She argued that without addressing overpopulation, the community cannot sustain a functioning shelter, and the cycle of abandonment and stray animals will continue. Mitchell urged the county to consider funding the clinic at $85 per surgery, which she described as a cost-effective solution compared to the expenses incurred from managing stray populations.

Jim Riley, a former Humane Society employee, supported the proposal by comparing TFFF's costs to those of episodic clinics, highlighting that TFFF's permanent facility offers immediate access to services, which is crucial for animals in need. He called for the county to invest in TFFF's efforts as a long-term solution to the animal welfare crisis.

Additionally, Jen Havens, founder of Towshound Underground, shared her experiences with the clinic, noting that the free services provided by TFFF allow rescues to allocate funds to other critical veterinary needs, thereby enhancing overall public health and safety.

The meeting underscored a collective call for community support to sustain TFFF's operations, with advocates arguing that investing in spay and neuter services is a proactive approach to preventing future animal welfare issues in Taos County.