St. Croix Animal Welfare Center (SCAWC) successfully completed a free spay/neuter clinic last week, providing 102 surgeries for dogs and cats across the island. Sponsored by the ASPCA® (American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals®), the clinic represents a critical step in addressing pet overpopulation and improving animal welfare in the U.S. Virgin Islands. This event brought the SCAWC’s spay/neuter total for 2025 to approximately 1,700 dogs and cats.
Led by SCAWC Medical Director Dr. Ashley Whiteside and visiting veterinarian Dr. Amy Kessler, supported by staff and volunteers, the clinic offered free services to community members who might otherwise face financial barriers to sterilizing their pets. Each surgery helps prevent unwanted litters, reduces strain on the shelter system, and improves the long-term health and wellbeing of animals.
“Completing 102 surgeries in just a few days is an incredible achievement and a testament to what’s possible when the community comes together for animals,” said Dr. Ashley Whiteside. “Spay and neuter services are one of the most effective tools we have to reduce suffering and overpopulation, and every single surgery makes a lasting difference.”
SCAWC Executive Director LaToya Petty emphasized the broader community impact of the clinic. “This clinic is about more than numbers; it’s about compassion, prevention, and creating a more humane future for St. Croix,” said Petty. “By offering these services for free, we are removing barriers for pet owners and directly reducing the number of animals entering our shelter. We are deeply grateful to our veterinary partners, staff, volunteers, and supporters who made this possible.”
Looking ahead to 2026, the SCAWC team would ideally like to offer free spay/neuter services to the community year-round. However, the non-profit organization will unfortunately need to do so without the continuation of the ASPCA funding it received in 2025. The ability to continue offering low or no-cost spay/neuter services to the St. Croix community will depend on donor support.
The SCAWC continues to prioritize spay and neuter initiatives as a cornerstone of its mission to promote responsible pet ownership and reduce the number of homeless animals on St. Croix. For more information about St. Croix Animal Welfare Center, upcoming clinics, or how to support its programs, visit www.StCroixAWC.org.
