#United States #Grand Rapids #BISSELL Pet Foundation #Fix the Future #Dave Duffield

Ending Pet Overpopulation: A New Initiative

In a significant move to address the critical issue of pet overpopulation in the United States, the Dave & Cheryl Duffield Foundation has announced a generous grant of $6 million to the BISSELL Pet Foundation's Fix the Future Initiative. This funding is set to bolster efforts to ensure over 600,000 spay and neuter surgeries are performed across the nation within the next three years.

Understanding the Need

Currently, many communities in the U.S. face a severe lack of access to essential veterinary care, particularly spay and neuter services that are crucial for controlling pet populations. The consequences of this gap are dire; many shelters are overwhelmed, leading to high euthanasia rates and unhealthy living conditions for animals. Thus, this initiative is not merely a charitable act but a vital intervention aimed at creating healthier futures for pets everywhere.

Cathy Bissell, the founder of the BISSELL Pet Foundation, expressed gratitude toward the Duffield Foundation, acknowledging their pivotal role in the mission to mitigate the effects of pet overpopulation. "Spay and neuter programs are essential for aiding pets and the communities that love them. The Dave & Cheryl Duffield Foundation's remarkable support will enable us to expand our efforts where they are needed the most and inspire others to participate in resolving this crisis," she stated.

The Impact of the Partnership

This partnership promises to have an immediate and positive impact on the current backlog of spay and neuter procedures nationwide. Amy Zeifang, Director of the Dave & Cheryl Duffield Foundation, highlighted the significance of this collaboration. "The Fix the Future initiative has demonstrated outstanding results so far. Together, we are excited to challenge others to join us in fostering conditions that allow both pets and their communities to thrive and maintain healthier populations."

The funds provided will not only enhance surgical access to spay and neuter services but will also improve overall veterinary care, aiding in the reduction of shelter populations and ensuring a brighter, healthier future for companion animals.

About the BISSELL Pet Foundation

Founded in 2011, the BISSELL Pet Foundation (BPF) is a registered nonprofit organization committed to reducing the number of animals in shelters through various means, including pet adoption, spay and neuter programs, microchipping, and crisis response initiatives. Over the course of its operation, BPF has partnered with over 6,000 shelters and rescues across the United States and Canada to help pets find loving homes. With the slogan "Every Purchase Saves Pets™", BPF aims to inspire communities and individuals to engage in the welfare of animals.

More about their initiatives can be explored at bissellpetfoundation.org.

About the Dave & Cheryl Duffield Foundation

Established in 2016, the Dave & Cheryl Duffield Foundation (DCDF) builds upon the Duffield family's longstanding commitment to transformative services. The foundation focuses on enhancing care for companion animals, facilitating programs that pair Veterans with service dogs, and supporting community public service organizations. Additionally, the foundation is part of a broader family of initiatives including Maddie's Fund—a leader in advancing the welfare of companion animals—and Liberty Dogs, which assists Veterans struggling with PTSD through specialized service dog training.

For further details, visit duffieldfoundation.org.

In conclusion, the collaboration between the Dave & Cheryl Duffield Foundation and the BISSELL Pet Foundation marks a promising development in the fight against pet overpopulation and the wellness of our cherished animal companions. By raising awareness and increasing access to vital veterinary services, this initiative is set to inspire collective action towards a healthier future for pets and their owners alike.