The MSPCA/MVMA Spay/Neuter Program (SNAP)
The Spay/Neuter Assistance Program (SNAP) offers reduced cost spay and neuter operations for low-income pet owners.
The MSPCA, in cooperation with the Massachusetts Veterinary Medical Association (MVMA), offers eligible pet owners a discount certificate which is accepted by nearly 200 veterinary hospitals and veterinary clinics throughout Massachusetts.
SNAP has helped to reduce the number of unwanted kittens and puppies born since 1986 when the program began. Reduced SNAP fees are made possible through generous donations of time and resources by participating veterinarians who believe in the importance of spaying and neutering as part of a complete pet health care program.
Apply for SNAP
Click here to apply for the SNAP Program today!
Do you own a Pit Bull? Learn more about the MSPCA's new Pit Pals Program.
Are you a Boston Resident? The Shalit-Glazer Clinic at the MSPCA in Boston is a low-cost one-day, one-visit option that does include required vaccinations in the fee. If you live in the Boston area, click here to learn more about making an appointment at the Shalit-Glazer Clinic.
Are you a Merrimack Valley resident? The MSPCA at Nevins Farm and The Merrimack River Feline Rescue Society offer affordable spay-neuter surgeries and vaccines to the cats and dogs of Merrimack Valley families in need of financial assistance. Click here to learn more.
Commonly Asked Questions
What are the financial guidelines to qualify?
Many factors are taken into consideration when your application is evaluated, such as total income, number of household members, rent/mortgage, assistance programs, age of pet, etc.
How much does it cost?
Costs vary among the participating SNAP veterinarians. Please call the SNAP veterinary practices in your area for prices.
Once I submit a SNAP application, how long should I wait to hear if I qualify?
You will receive information within 1 week of submitting the application. If you do not hear from us after 2 weeks, please call (617) 541-5007.
Are the immunizations (shots) included in the program?
No, shots required prior to surgery are not included in SNAP. Only the spay/neuter surgery expenses are discounted. The Shalit-Glazer Clinic at the MSPCA in Boston is a low-cost one-day, one-visit option that does include required vaccinations in the fee. If you live in the Boston area, click here to learn more about making an appointment at the Shalit-Glazer Clinic.
What if I don't live in Massachusetts?
This program is with participating Massachusetts veterinary practices only. If you live elsewhere, please contact SpayUSA for a low cost program in your area: http://www.spayusa.org. You may apply for assistance only for your own pets.
What if I have more than one pet I would like spayed/neutered?
If you have more than one pet that you would like to have spayed or neutered, please use the comment section of the form to describe the other pet(s). You will be notified as to your eligibility for the Spay/Neuter Assistance Program within one week of the time your application is received. If you need help completing the form, please call (617) 541-5007.
How old should my dog and/ or cat be when I get him/her sterilized?
Spaying or neutering early - as young as 2 months - protects your pet's health. Please spay your female pet before she has even one litter; and neuter your male pet before he has a chance to get out and impregnate unspayed females in your neighborhood. Help us reduce the pet overpopulation problem!
What are the benefits of spaying or neutering my pet?
There are many benefits for both you and your pet - click here to learn more! Spayed females will avoid the risks of pregnancy and uterine infections, and will be far less likely to develop mammary cancer later in life. Neutered male cats do not spray your furniture, walls and plants to stake out their territories. Neutering also discourages male cats and dogs from roaming, decreasing the likelihood of fights, car accidents and disease. Neutering also reduces the tendency to be aggressive toward humans and other animals, and it lowers your pet's risk of developing prostate cancer and other diseases.
Interested in Becoming a SNAP Vet?
Get more information on the program and how to become a SNAP vet.
Get Involved
Learn how to become a volunteer and get involved with the SNAP Program.
Get Moving on a 'Pet-active' License Plate
Millions of animals depend on all of us for help and support. In Massachusetts, there is a new way to advance a valuable program.
SNAP Application
Click here to apply for the SNAP Program online or print and mail it to:
MSPCA Spay/Neuter Assistance Program
350 South Huntington Ave.
Boston, MA 02130
