The RSPCA Port Macquarie Volunteer Branch is working to support locals in tackling a cat-astrophe by providing feline desexing vouchers to Centrelink recipients.
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The aim of the desexing program is to help reduce the number of cats being surrendered to local animal shelters.
"There are a lot of cats in the Port Macquarie area that aren't desexed and each year it gets worse," acting president of the RSPCA Port Macquarie Volunteer Branch Carolyn Smith said.
"That means there are a lot more kittens every year that we have to try and rehome.
"Because we're a volunteer group, we have to fundraise to have programs like this in the community.
"We were fortunate to receive a legacy left by a lovely lady called Maxine who wanted the money to go towards helping cats and that's what's making this all possible."
The $30 cat desexing vouchers will need to be paid in cash, with the RSPCA covering the remaining cost.
RSPCA volunteers will be at the Wauchope Showground on June 19 from 8.30am to 12pm (or until vouchers run out) and the CWA rooms at 11 Horton Street in Port Macquarie between 1pm and 5pm (or until vouchers run out).
"The voucher will cover the desexing, vaccination and microchip," Carolyn said.
"We want this program to target people who wouldn't usually get their animal desexed because of the cost.
"The community has had a lot to deal with over the past few years and it's important that even though a lot of people are doing it tough, our animals are still being looked after."
To collect a $30 voucher you must attend in person and provide your Centrelink card and proof of residence in the Port Macquarie-Hastings area. Locals will also have to bring their microchip number if their cat already has one to qualify for a voucher.
"We have three local vets who are supporting the program and the vouchers will be valid for three months from date of issue," Carolyn said.
"It's important to get the message out there about the need to desex pets to reduce the number of animals ending up in shelters."
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