BOSTON, MA, (October 17, 2024) – On Saturday, October 5, the MSPCA-Angell and United Spay Alliance partnered to deliver a critical hands-on training for licensed veterinarians in high-quality, high-volume spay/neuter (HQHVSN) techniques for cats. The full-day wet lab, held at the MSPCA Cape Cod, is part of a growing national effort to equip veterinarians with life-changing surgical skills.
Four veterinarians participated in the training, gaining practice experience under the guidance of experienced HQHVSN surgeons, Dr. Michelle Jenssen and Dr. Emily Boccia of the MSPCA.
“Thank you so much for offering this program. Truly phenomenal!” said Dr. Amanda Podles, one of the trainees.
“Awesome wet lab! I learned so much that will help me with my cat spays, and now feel comfortable doing pyometras! I loved this lab,” added Dr. Sasha Santiago.
This training marks the second HQHVSN wet lab held in Massachusetts and the sixth across the US in 2024 alone, underscoring the growing demand for these advanced surgical techniques, which are rapidly becoming recognized as a best practice for veterinarians everywhere.
Addressing Critical Needs in Massachusetts and Beyond
HQHVSN techniques not only improve the safety and efficiency of surgeries, but they also play a pivotal role in expanding access to affordable spay/neuter services. In Massachusetts, where even low-cost procedures for cats can exceed $100, and dog surgeries often cost more, the need for cost-effective solutions has never been greater.
“The rising costs of veterinary care are creating barriers for pet owners across the county,” said Esther Mechler, founder of United Spay Alliance. “By expanding access to HQHVSN training, we’re not only improving veterinary skills but also addressing the growing need for affordable and accessible spay/neuter services.”
United Spay Alliance is committed to providing more training opportunities nationwide, with the goal of empowering veterinarians to incorporate HQHVSN techniques into their everyday practice, ultimately helping communities meet the ongoing challenge of pet overpopulation.
A Collaborative Effort for Change
This wet lab training is part of United Spay Alliance’s larger mission to promote HQHVSN as the gold standard in spay/neuter surgeries. By collaborating with local partners like the MSPCA, United Spay Alliance ensures that veterinarians have the skills needed to offer safe, efficient, and affordable spay/neuter services to their communities.
United Spay Alliance and the MSPCA would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to The John T. and Jane A. Wiederhold Foundation, a supporting organization of the Northwest CT Community Foundation, for their generous support in making this event possible. Their commitment to animal welfare has played an essential role in providing veterinarians with the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in these critical techniques.
As the demand for accessible veterinary care continues to rise, United Spay Alliance looks forward to further expanding its HQHVSN wet lab program, building on the success of this Massachusetts event and others like it across the country.
About MSPCA
The MSPCA-Angell is a national and international leader in animal protection and veterinary medicine and provides direct hands-on care for thousands of animals each year. Founded in 1868, it is the second-oldest humane society in the United States. Services include animal protection and adoption, advocacy, humane education, law enforcement, and world-class veterinary care. The MSPCA-Angell is a private, non-profit organization. It does not receive any government funding nor is it funded or operated by any national humane organization. The MSPCA-Angell relies solely on the support and contributions from individuals who care about animals. Please visit mspca.org or follow on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, TikTok, Threads, and LinkedIn for more information.
About United Spay Alliance
United Spay Alliance (USA) is dedicated to promoting affordable, accessible, and timely spay/neuter services. By preventing unwanted litters today, we can prevent animal suffering tomorrow. From maintaining a nationwide directory of low-cost spay/neuter services for the public, to fostering collaboration among advocates through the State Leader Network, to empowering veterinarians through programs like HQHVSN wet labs and Feline Fix by Five, USA works to support animals and the people who care for them. In 2024, USA launched United We Spay, a monthly podcast sharing inspiring stories from the spay/neuter movement. Learn more at unitedspayalliance.org or follow @UnitedSpayAlliance on Facebook and Instagram.