United We Spay

What does it take to go beyond what's prescribed, to follow a calling, and to tell a story that simply won't let you go? In this episode, Stacy LeBaron speaks with Melinda Grohol, a longtime freelance writer whose passion for people and animals led her to write the official biography of Dr. Jeff Young — the beloved veterinarian known to millions as Dr. Jeff: Rocky Mountain Vet on Animal Planet. Melinda's connection to spay/neuter runs deep. Growing up in a time when pet reproduction was simply left to nature, she witnessed firsthand the consequences of unchecked overpopulation. That early awareness, deepened by friendships with shelter workers and encounters with advocates like Esther Mechler and Dr. Jeff himself, solidified her belief that spay/neuter is the most powerful tool available for preventing animal suffering. The book, Beyond the Boundaries: The Life and Times of Dr. Jeff, the Rocky Mountain Vet, traces Dr. Jeff's remarkable journey — from his pivotal early decision never to euthanize healthy animals, to his work training veterinarians both in the U.S. and around the world, to the personal challenges that have shaped his life and career. Melinda shares the stories that moved her most, including the chapter featuring letters from former students Dr. Jeff trained, the forward written by United Spay Alliance founder Esther Mechler, and memorable tales of Fred the clinic dog — a golden retriever Dr. Jeff rescued and who now tends to recovering patients in the clinic. Melinda herself is a bookseller at Barnes & Noble with a long career writing about people and causes that make a difference. She describes feeling genuinely compelled to tell Dr. Jeff's story — certain that if she didn't, she would regret it for the rest of her life. In this episode you will hear: How Melinda came to write Dr. Jeff's biography — and why she felt she had no choice but to tell his story The defining moment that shaped Dr. Jeff's lifelong commitment to spay/neuter: being asked to euthanize 56 healthy puppies early in his career How Dr. Jeff built his practice around a non-negotiable rule — every pet that comes in must be spayed or neutered What makes Dr. Jeff such an effective teacher of new veterinarians and how he mentors them through hands-on, side-by-side instruction Stories of Dr. Jeff's work with exotic and unexpected animals — including spaying a jaguar and neutering a camel in rural Colorado The heartwarming story of Fred, the golden retriever Dr. Jeff rescued and who now serves as an unofficial clinic comforter for post-surgery animals The power of trust, collaboration, and handshake agreements in Dr. Jeff's approach to veterinary work around the world Why Melinda believes Dr. Jeff is a role model not just for aspiring vets, but for anyone who wants to rethink how we care for our animals Resources from this episode: Beyond the Boundaries: The Life and Times of Dr. Jeff, the Rocky Mountain Vet by Melinda Grohol — available on Amazon and Barnes & Noble Dr. Jeff: Rocky Mountain Vet — Animal Planet series featuring Dr. Jeff Young United Spay Alliance: unitedspayalliance.org Esther Mechler, President & Founder, United Spay Alliance — unitedspayalliance.org/about/board

Dawn Wilkinson, the dynamic executive director of the Humane Society in South Carolina, joins us on this episode of United We Spay to share her inspiring journey from accounting and healthcare to animal welfare advocacy. Her leadership has been pivotal in transforming the organization by reducing costs and expanding programs to perform thousands of spay-neuter surgeries annually. Dawn's passion for ending animal cruelty and overpopulation shines as she discusses the importance of making these services accessible to more communities. We explore the financial strategies that are driving nonprofits toward greater efficiency and sustainability. Organizations can fulfill their fiduciary responsibilities while expanding their reach by treating nonprofit budgets like a business. Learn insightful techniques, such as optimizing salary expenses and leveraging inventory management, that have been game-changers for the Humane Society. The episode highlights how platforms like VetCve, along with strategic negotiations with suppliers, are helping to reduce expenses and improve services. Dawn also highlights the global impact of spay-neuter initiatives and their role in public health. With resources like UnitedSpayAlliance.org, we emphasize the importance of spreading awareness and education on this critical issue. As we continue to build a compassionate world for animals, we invite listeners to engage with our mission by sharing these insights, subscribing to future episodes, and reaching out for more information. Join us in this ongoing conversation about making a difference one spay-neuter surgery at a time. In this episode, you will hear: Dawn Wilkinson's transition from finance to leading the Humane Society in South Carolina Strategies for nonprofit efficiency, focusing on budget management and cost reduction. Spay-neuter initiatives in combating animal overpopulation and promoting public health Innovative financial strategies, including inventory management and supplier negotiations Utilization of technology to enhance communication and streamline operations within nonprofits Spreading awareness and education about accessible spay-neuter services Techniques for maximizing fundraising and sustaining nonprofit operations Resources from this Episode United Spay Alliance: unitedspayalliance.org Feline Fix by Five: felinefixbyfive.org Humane Society of South Carolina: www.humanesc.org Follow and Review: We'd love for you to follow us if you haven't yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We'd love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select "Ratings and Reviews" and "Write a Review" then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.

On this episode of United We Spay, Stacy welcomes Brianna Lovell Myers, the Administrative Director of the United Spay Alliance. Brianna shares her compelling journey and deep passion for promoting accessible spay-neuter services. Growing up in a low-income household, Brianna witnessed firsthand the challenges of managing cat overpopulation without affordable spay-neuter options. These personal experiences have fueled her commitment to finding better solutions for animal welfare. We explore the various initiatives she leads, such as the Wet Lab Program, which provides crucial hands-on training for veterinarians in high-quality, high-volume spay-neuter techniques. Stacy and Brianna explore the intricacies of the Wet Lab Program, a hands-on veterinary training initiative focused on enhancing spay-neuter skills. The program is designed to address the shortage of available appointments and skilled surgeons by providing veterinarians from diverse backgrounds, including those in private practices, with the opportunity to learn and perform surgeries in a supportive environment. Feedback from participants has been overwhelmingly positive, highlighting the confidence boost and skill enhancement it provides. The program is a collaborative effort, and we invite more veterinarians to get involved and enhance their surgical capabilities. We also discuss the logistical and supportive aspects of running a successful high-volume spay-neuter clinic. Each element is vital, from coordinating with shelters and rescues to ensure a steady flow of animals to setting up clinic spaces and securing financial and organizational support. We underscore the importance of experienced veterinary technicians and the financial assistance available, such as continuing education credits. Furthermore, we explore the United Spay Alliance's mission to expand spay-neuter access and support across states, emphasizing collaborative efforts, a comprehensive directory of resources, and innovative programs like the vet shortage task force. Join us as we highlight the vital importance of prevention in animal welfare and share upcoming events designed to engage and educate. In this episode, you will hear: Brianna Lovell Myers's journey and dedication to making spay-neuter services more accessible, particularly in low-income communities Overview of the Wet Lab Program, providing hands-on training for veterinarians to perform high-quality, high-volume spay-neuter surgeries Insights into the logistical challenges of running a high-volume spay-neuter clinic and the importance of strategic planning and support networks The collaborative efforts of the United Spay Alliance to expand spay-neuter services and address veterinary care shortages Positive feedback from veterinarians participating in the Wet Lab sessions and the confidence boost it provides The comprehensive directory and support programs like the Vet Shortage Task Force and Feline Fix by Five initiative Upcoming events, webinars, and online conferences aimed at engaging and empowering animal welfare advocates Resources from this Episode United Spay Alliance: unitedspayalliance.org Feline Fix by Five: felinefixbyfive.org Follow and Review: We'd love for you to follow us if you haven't yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We'd love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select "Ratings and Reviews" and "Write a Review" then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.

On this episode of United We Spay, Loren Breen, the Director of Policy, Research, and Government Affairs at the Animal Policy Group, joins Stacy to unpack the significant rise in spay-neuter legislative activity—from a mere 100 bills in 2017 to over 2300 in recent years. We navigate the landscape of spay-neuter laws, exploring prohibitive bills and creative tax initiatives like California's tax designation for euthanasia prevention and Louisiana's innovative pet stamp program. Despite many bills facing obstacles, Loren shares strategic approaches to propel these initiatives forward, including the critical role of veterinarians and collaboration with state associations. Addressing the pressing veterinary staffing shortage, we examine legislative responses reshaping the roles of veterinary technicians and mid-level professionals. California's pioneering bill allowing registered veterinary technicians to conduct neuter surgeries under supervision might set a precedent nationwide, while telemedicine is gaining traction in states like Florida, potentially easing staffing woes. We also widen our gaze to global spay-neuter advocacy efforts, encouraging our listeners to engage with resources offered by the United Spay Alliance. Stay informed each month as we share meaningful conversations to advance animal welfare globally. In this episode, you will hear: A surge in spay-neuter legislation, from 100 bills in 2017 to over 2300 recently California's euthanasia prevention tax and Louisiana's pet stamp program Veterinary staffing shortage solutions, including expanded roles for vet techs and telemedicine innovations California's bill for RVTs to perform neuter surgeries under supervision Efforts by United Spay Alliance and resources for engagement Importance of collaboration and veterinarians and state associations in legislative advocacy Mid-level professional roles and veterinary loan repayment discussions Resources from this Episode United Spay Alliance: unitedspayalliance.org Feline Fix by Five: felinefixbyfive.org Follow and Review: We'd love for you to follow us if you haven't yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We'd love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select "Ratings and Reviews" and "Write a Review" then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.

Is there a humane way to tackle the daunting issue of animal overpopulation? On this episode of United We Spay, renowned veterinarian Dr. Jeff Young believes there is and is on a mission to prove it. Dr. Young reveals how his experiences in vet school ignited a lifelong commitment to high-volume, low-cost spay-neuter services, leading to the creation of Planned Pethood Plus and its international arm. His inspiring journey is filled with pivotal moments that underscore the transformative power of early-age neutering and mobile vet services. Discover how his dedication has not only trained veterinarians worldwide but has also profoundly impacted reducing animal suffering on a global scale. We delve into the intricate challenges of pet overpopulation and the barriers that prevent effective solutions. Economic hurdles, particularly in low-income and rural communities, underscore the pressing need for accessible veterinary care. Dr. Young doesn't shy away from discussing the emotional toll of economic euthanasia on veterinarians and the responsibility of major nonprofits to address financial constraints. But it's not just veterinarians leading the charge. Non-veterinarians and community activists play a crucial role in advancing spay-neuter advocacy. Through successful collaborations, they spotlight the necessity of spay-neuter efforts as the foundation for systemic change, aiming to support pet owners and veterinary professionals in this vital mission. In this episode, you will hear: Dr. Jeff Young's journey from veterinary student to global spay-neuter advocate Establishment of Planned Pethood Plus and Planned Pethood International to address pet overpopulation Challenges in pet overpopulation, including financial and societal barriers Role of non-veterinarians and community activists in spay-neuter advocacy Collaboration between veterinarians and activists to implement mobile clinics and TNR programs Economic and emotional challenges veterinarians face due to rising costs and economic euthanasia Importance of prioritizing spay-neuter efforts for systemic change in animal welfare Resources from this Episode Feline Fix by Five: www.unitedspayalliance.org/feline-fix-by-five Follow and Review: We'd love for you to follow us if you haven't yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We'd love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select "Ratings and Reviews" and "Write a Review" then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.

Unlock the secrets to overcoming the veterinary workforce shortage with insights from Stacy's expert guest, Stacy Pursell, founder and CEO of the Vet Recruiter. In this episode of United We Spay, we address the growing demand for veterinarians and the factors contributing to stress and burnout among current staff. Stacy shares her wealth of knowledge on the strategic, talent-centric solutions needed to secure the future of veterinary care. Discover innovative strategies employers are using to attract and retain veterinarians, especially in underserved areas. From student loan repayment programs to enticing relocation packages and signing bonuses, learn how these tools are becoming essential in today's competitive market. We also delve into the changing dynamics of hiring, emphasizing the importance of being flexible, urgent, and agile and how a robust employer brand can make all the difference. Get practical advice on effective employee retention strategies that begin the moment a candidate accepts an offer. Stacy Pursell discusses the power of exceptional onboarding experiences in mitigating early departures and the significance of maintaining strong communication. We also explore what it takes to become an employer of choice, from creating a positive workplace culture to offering competitive compensation. This episode is brimming with insights to help you navigate the challenges of recruiting and retaining top veterinary talent. In this episode, you will hear: The pressing shortage of veterinarians, projected job openings, and factors contributing to stress and burnout among current staff Innovative employer tactics, including student loan repayment programs, relocation packages, and signing bonuses, particularly in underserved areas The importance of being flexible, urgent, and agile in hiring processes Building a strong employer brand to attract top candidates Effective retention strategies, starting from onboarding, addressing counteroffers, and maintaining strong communication to mitigate early departures Creating a positive workplace culture and offering competitive compensation to become an employer of choice The role of tangible rewards, stress reduction, and competitive pay in boosting employee loyalty and retention Specific strategies for hiring veterinarians in nonprofit settings, emphasizing mission alignment and understanding the implications of frequent job changes Resources from this Episode Feline Fix by Five: www.unitedspayalliance.org/feline-fix-by-five 2024 United Spay Alliance Online Conference: www.communitycatspodcast.com/events/2024-united-spay-alliance-online-conference Follow and Review: We'd love for you to follow us if you haven't yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We'd love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select "Ratings and Reviews" and "Write a Review" then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.

On this episode of United We Spay, learn how spay-neuter services are transforming animal welfare and reducing shelter overpopulation with our expert panel. Hear from Peter Marsh, who provides historical insights into effective sterilization laws from California and New Hampshire, and learn from Dr. Jeffrey Young and Dr. Phil Bushby about their extensive experience in spay-neuter programs and veterinary training. Learn the importance of spaying and neutering animals before adoption and how these initiatives are essential in preventing an influx of homeless animals in shelters. We also emphasize the need for veterinary students to master spay-neuter procedures before five months of age, ensuring they are equipped with the best surgical skills upon graduation. Innovative training programs in Colorado and other areas are highlighted for their hands-on approach and high-quality techniques, moving beyond traditional methods. This episode underscores the importance of adhering to spay-neuter protocols, celebrating the progress made, and calling for ongoing improvements. Visit UnitedSpayAlliance.org and FelineFixedByFive.org to learn more and support this vital cause. In this episode, you will hear: The importance of spay-neuter services in transforming animal welfare and reducing shelter overpopulation Historical insights on sterilization laws from California and New Hampshire by Peter Marsh Experiences and expertise of Dr. Jeffrey Young and Dr. Phil Bushby in spay-neuter programs and veterinary training The significance of spaying and neutering animals before adoption to prevent an influx of homeless animals The critical need for veterinary students to master spay-neuter procedures before five months of age Innovative training programs with hands-on, high-quality spay-neuter techniques Adhering to spay-neuter protocols and celebrating progress in animal welfare initiatives Resources from this Episode Feline Fix by Five: www.unitedspayalliance.org/feline-fix-by-five Follow and Review: We'd love for you to follow us if you haven't yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We'd love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select "Ratings and Reviews" and "Write a Review" then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.

Get the secrets to combating pet overpopulation and discover how spay-neuter programs are a practical solution for communities nationwide. On this episode of United We Spay, join Stacy as she teams up with Cheri Storms from Pet Friendly Services of Indiana to scrutinize the reproductive rates of cats and dogs that lead to shelter overflows. You'll hear how their organization champions the fight through financial assistance and voucher programs. We discuss the overwhelming demand for their services and the need for accessible spay-neuter options, especially for low-income pet owners. We also tackle the challenges different geographical areas face, pinpointing why a one-size-fits-all approach isn't feasible for urban and rural settings. We also acknowledge the elephant in the room: the veterinary shortage crisis in the U.S. Stacy highlights the United Spay Alliance's Veterinary Shortage Task Force, which is paving the way for innovative solutions to bridge the gap in animal healthcare. We consider introducing roles similar to physician's assistants to support the strained workforce and emphasize the urgency for collaboration and creativity in preparing for the inevitable veterinary and technician scarcities. By emphasizing preventive care through spay-neuter initiatives, we're easing the strain on shelters and promoting healthier, happier communities for pets and their people. Tune in for the full scope of these issues and the inspiring work being done to address them head-on. In this episode, you will hear: Cheri Storms on combating pet overpopulation The role of spay-neuter programs, particularly in Indiana Financial assistance and voucher programs by Pet Friendly Services of Indiana that ensure low-income pet owners can access spay-neuter services Differences in urban and rural challenges for spay-neuter services with unique solutions for each setting The veterinary shortage crisis in the U.S., The potential for introducing roles similar to physician's assistants in the veterinary field Spay-neuter initiatives as cost-effective and preventative measures that benefit shelters and communities An overwhelming demand for spay-neuter services and the rapid filling of available slots for procedures each week Community-level programs using collaboration and innovation to address the vet and technician shortages projected for the next decades Resources from this Episode Feline Fix by Five: www.unitedspayalliance.org/feline-fix-by-five Pet Friendly Services of Indiana: https://petfriendlyservices.org/ Follow and Review: We'd love for you to follow us if you haven't yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We'd love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select "Ratings and Reviews" and "Write a Review" then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.