February marks Spay and Neuter Awareness Month, with World Spay Day celebrated on the last Tuesday of the month. It is a time to highlight one of the most effective ways to combat stray animal overpopulation and improve animal welfare through neutering and spaying.
Across Greece, thousands of stray cats and dogs struggle to survive, facing hunger, disease, and harsh conditions. At Animal Action Greece, we are committed to making a difference through our sterilisation initiatives, helping to prevent the suffering of future generations of animals.
Why Spaying and Neutering is essential
Reduces overpopulation: Every year, thousands of stray kittens and puppies are born into uncertain futures. Many do not survive due to lack of food, medical care, or shelter. Sterilisation helps control the stray population, ensuring fewer animals are left to suffer on the streets.
Improves animal health: Spaying and neutering significantly reduce the risk of reproductive diseases such as mammary tumours, uterine infections, and testicular cancer. It also curbs hormone-driven behaviours that can lead to fights, injuries, and stress among animals.
Creates safer communities: Uncontrolled stray populations can lead to territorial disputes, aggression, and the spread of diseases such as rabies and Feline Leukaemia. By sterilising animals, we create healthier and safer environments for both animals and people.
Supports ethical and sustainable animal welfare: Instead of reacting to overpopulation through extreme methods such as culling or abandonment, sterilisation provides a humane, long-term solution that benefits entire communities.
Our work at Animal Action Greece
Through our sterilisation programmes, we work alongside local veterinarians, municipalities, and rescue organisations to provide support with spay/neuter services across Greece. In 2024 alone, we helped sterilise over 1,500 stray cats and dogs in Taxiarchis and on the islands of Paros & Antiparos we’re currently undertaking one of the largest community cat care projects in Greece, sterilising over 3,697 cats too date. These efforts prevent the birth of thousands of unwanted litters, reducing suffering and improving the quality of life for countless animals.
How you can help
- Support our work: Your donations allow us to continue funding sterilisation programmes, ensuring more strays receive this vital procedure. To donate please click here.
- Adopt, don’t shop: If you are considering bringing a pet into your home, choose adoption. Many sterilised, healthy strays are looking for loving homes.
- Spread the word: Share the importance of spaying and neutering with friends and family, helping to change attitudes towards responsible pet ownership.
- Work with your community: If you see stray animals in need, reach out to local animal welfare groups or veterinarians who offer spay/neuter programmes.
This Spay/Neuter Awareness Month let’s stand together for animals worldwide. By taking action, we can create a future where fewer animals suffer on the streets and more live healthy, fulfilling lives. Join us in making a lasting impact today.