The Fix Is In recognizes World Spay Day

WOOD COUNTY – Feb. 27 marked World Spay Day, an international campaign raising awareness about the importance of spaying and neutering pets. Animal shelters across the state are overrun, and a severe veterinarian shortage is making it increasingly difficult for pet owners to access spay and neuter services.
Founded in 2009, The Fix Is In is a 100% volunteer-driven nonprofit dedicated to expanding access to spay and neuter services across Wisconsin. In 2024, the organization helped fund
nearly 700 spay and neuter surgeries for outdoor cats. Previously operating a mobile veterinary clinic, The Fix Is In shifted its focus in 2022 to providing financial and logistical support, ensuring these critical surgeries remain accessible and affordable. By reducing pet overpopulation, the organization helps create a healthier environment for both animals and their communities
“Cats have been a part of our world for thousands of years. It is critical that we do what we can to control the population,” says Karla Ortman, The Fix Is In founder. Wisconsin is full of compassionate people who care for cats and dogs, both in homes and on farms. Cats play a vital role in controlling rodent populations, but without spaying and neutering, even a small number of cats can quickly multiply into a population of 50 or more. This can lead to inbreeding, disease, and malnourishment. A single unspayed female cat can easily give birth to around 60 kittens within five years. Spaying and neutering prevent unchecked population growth that can become unmanageable for individuals and communities.
Spaying and neutering save lives. Studies show that altered cats and dogs live longer, healthier lives than unaltered pets. These procedures reduce the risk of disease, prevent life-threatening reproductive cancers, and decrease dangerous behaviors like roaming and fighting. For outdoor cats, spay and neuter are especially critical - only 25% of kittens survive to adulthood, with many facing starvation, disease, or deadly exposure to harsh weather. Preventing these litters spares countless animals from suffering while improving the well-being of existing pets and strays.

As part of their efforts, The Fix Is In has launched a specialty license plate to help offset the cost of spay and neuter surgeries for individuals and rescue organizations statewide.
“Money is tight for many families, but we love our pets,” says Bree Richardson, president of The Fix Is In board. “Purchasing this specialty plate is a simple yet impactful way for Wisconsin residents to support animal welfare and help curb animal overpopulation. Funds from license plate orders go directly to covering spay and neuter surgery costs for individuals and rescues assisting people with spay and neuter.”
For more information on how to support spay and neuter efforts in Wisconsin or to order a specialty license plate and make a direct impact, visit The Fix Is In at https://www.thefixisin.org