The Stay Foundation Launches Affordable Community Desexing Program for National Desexing Month

The Stay Foundation is proud to announce a new Community Desexing Program launching this July in support of National Desexing Month. This initiative is designed to address the urgent issue of pet overpopulation and help vulnerable pet owners in the Newcastle local government area access critical veterinary care.

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Pet overpopulation remains a significant problem across Australia, with thousands of unwanted litters leading to crowded shelters and heartbreaking euthanasia rates each year. Many of these outcomes can be prevented through early desexing. Yet for many pet parents, particularly those experiencing financial hardship, the cost of surgery and lack of accessible vet services create major barriers.

With the rising cost of living, many pet parents are struggling just to cover essentials like rent, food, and utilities. For these families, their pet is often their main source of comfort, stability, and happiness during challenging times. Sadly, the cost of preventative vet care—like desexing, vaccinations, and parasite prevention—can be completely out of reach.

Without support, these loving owners face impossible choices that can lead to surrender or compromised pet health.

The Stay Foundation’s Community Desexing Program aims to break down these barriers. Throughout July, residents of the Newcastle local government area who hold a concession, pension, or health care card can access heavily subsidised desexing: just $29 for cats and $49 for dogs. This program not only helps prevent unwanted litters and reduces strain on local shelters but also improves pets' long-term health and behaviour.

“Desexing is one of the most effective ways to tackle pet overpopulation at its root,” said Jesse Reinhard, Founder & Managing Director of The Stay Foundation. “I’ve spoken many local pet parents doing it tough feed their dog or cat before themselves and that means preventative veterinary costs are just not realistic.”

“We hope by making this vital service affordable and accessible, we’re supporting both pets and their people, ensuring fewer animals end up in shelters and more stay safe and loved in their homes.”

The program is part of The Stay Foundation’s broader mission to help pets and people STAY together through essential veterinary care, food, and supplies. By supporting early intervention, the Foundation works to reduce crisis-driven surrenders and protect the powerful human-animal bond.

To apply for the Community Desexing Program or learn more, eligible residents can visit www.thestayfoundation.org/community-desexing-program or contact hello@thestayfoundation.org