Operation SNIP, a program of the Humane Society of Missouri and the American Medical Center of Mid-America, provides low-cost spay and neuter surgeries for the pets of Missouri residents. These procedures are helpful in preventing animal overpopulation, prevent a number of health and behavioral problems for pets, and help keep our communities safe.
The Reality of Pet Overpopulation
- In just seven years, a single pair of cats and their offspring can produce a staggering total of 420,000 kittens.
- In the same timeframe, a single pair of dogs and their offspring can produce 67,000 puppies.
The Impact on the Safety of Our Communities
- Strays wander in search of food, form packs, compete for scarce resources and become aggressive toward humans.
- They can acquire and spread zoonotic diseases, such as rabies, which can be transmitted to humans.
- Research shows that nearly 75% of all dog bite incidents involve intact males (American Veterinary Medical Association).
- In 2022, the United States Postal Service ranked St. Louis 7th for dog attacks on letter carriers, and Missouri is ranked 9th in the United States.
- More than half of all dog bite victims are children, and according to the CDC, dog bites create a greater health problem for children than measles, mumps and whooping cough combined.
The Strain on Animal Rescues and Shelters
- Pet overpopulation puts an incredible burden on animal shelters who constantly work to find space to house the animals and hire and manage staff to feed, clean, heal, walk, and train the animals to prepare them for adoption.
- With an uncontrolled pet population, the work of caring for these poor animals can be overwhelming.
