Rescue saves the animal in front of us. Sterilization saves the ones who would otherwise be born into hunger, disease and danger. That is why spay and neuter is at the heart of Gracivo's work.
The numbers
A female cat can become pregnant from about 4–6 months old and have two to three litters a year. A dog can have two litters a year. Within a few years, one unsterilized pair can lead to dozens of animals — most of whom will not survive on the street.
What is TNR?
Trap–Neuter–Return is the humane, internationally recognized way to manage community cat colonies:
- Trap: cats are caught in humane traps.
- Neuter: a vet sterilizes them, usually vaccinates them, and clips the tip of one ear so everyone knows they are sterilized.
- Return: they go back to their familiar territory, where caretakers feed and watch over them.
Friendly cats and kittens young enough to be socialized are put up for adoption instead.
Why not just remove the animals?
When animals are removed or killed, new unsterilized animals move in to use the same food and shelter — and the cycle starts again. A stable, sterilized colony slowly gets smaller over time, with fewer fights, less noise and less disease.
Benefits for the animals — and for people
- No more exhausting pregnancies or dying kittens
- Less fighting, roaming and injuries
- Lower risk of some cancers and infections
- Fewer complaints about noise and spraying
How you can help
Tell us about colonies or street dogs in your area, help with transport or trapping as a volunteer, or sponsor sterilizations.