Spay/Neuter Initiative Program (SNIP Grant)

What is SNIP?

SNIP stands for Spay/Neuter Initiative Program. Pet Haven is committed to reducing the number of homeless pets in Minnesota. We believe we cannot adopt our way out of pet overpopulation, so we’re working to address the problem at its root. We offer the SNIP grant on an annual basis to animal welfare groups in Minnesota to support and strengthen their spay/neuter efforts. Since 2005, Pet Haven has provided more than $240,000 in grant funding to Minnesota-based animal welfare organizations focusing their efforts on reducing the number of unwanted dogs and cats. More than 5.000 animals have been altered through this grant. By reducing pet overpopulation we can improve the lives of dogs and cats and strengthen the bond between pets and their people.

Impact

In 2018, Pet Haven awarded $20,000 in grant funds to nine incredible Minnesota-based organizations who work to combat pet overpopulation. These groups focused their efforts on stray populations, local cat colonies, supporting spay/neuter efforts on native reservations, ferals,  and bully breeds.

Testimonials:

“I had Luna spayed through your SNIP grant program, and I wanted to take a moment to thank you for providing this service. I appreciate being able to be a part of the solution to the critical issue of overpopulation of felines. Thank you again for everything you do for the animals.”

“I participate in Red Lake Rosie’s clinic every year. I had Sasquatch my shepherd and pit-bull
dog neutered at the clinic. He also got shots for rabies and distemper and was treated for ticks and fleas. I think it is good to have these affordable services for our pets. All my animals have been fixed through this program. I would not be able to afford to have all my animals up to date on their shots and all fixed if it were not for this program.” Avis,  Redby, Minnesota

What do SNIP Grants fund?

SNIP Grants are intended to increase the number of animals that are altered, and grants should have a measurable impact on existing programs. This year, Pet Haven is focusing our grant awards on supporting organizations focusing on transformational change. Preference will be given to groups who are creating innovative partnerships and going above and beyond spay and neutering efforts. Examples include:

  • Altering dogs and cats whose litters are regularly surrendered to a shelter
  • Providing low-cost spay/neuter to pet owners
  • Funding TNR programs for cat colonies
  • Enabling community outreach efforts to provide spays/neuters to specifically targeted neighborhoods
  • Funding a mobile outreach effort to alter pets in rural areas

How do organizations apply for a SNIP Grant?

2019’s grant application period opens April 1st and closes April 31st.  Organizations will be notified by 05/31/2019 if they are selected to receive a grant.

Which organizations qualify for SNIP Grants?

In order to be eligible for a SNIP Grant, an organization must be a 501(c)3 organization in Minnesota (will be asked to provide IRS Certification letter).

Preference is given to organizations located in Minnesota whose annual budget is $300,000 or less.

How much funding does the grant provide?

Grant amounts range from $500-$5,000.

Which veterinary services do SNIP grants cover?

  • Organizations must use the grant funds to pay for spay and neuter surgical procedures. In addition, they may also use the funds for pre-operative examinations, pre-operative and intra-operative pain management, and emergency veterinary care related to the surgery.

What are the reporting requirements?

Grant recipients must complete a Final Report which will provide an analysis of the project and details of the number of animals impacted by the grant.  In addition, we will ask grant recipients to provide narrative and photos/video to share with our funders, supporters, and the general public.

How are SNIP Grants awarded?

We consider grant awards based on whether or not an organization meets the following criteria:

  • With the grant, can prove a measurable impact in reducing the number of unaltered dogs and cats in a specific location, beyond their existing efforts.
  • Demonstrates the ability to reach targeted low-income populations.
  • Demonstrates the capability to use the funds in the manner intended.
  • Innovative ideas and partnerships are given priority.

*2019 SNIP Grant Recipients*

Will be announced in July 2019!

Who do I contact if I have questions?

Please contact Pet Haven’s Executive Director with additional questions about SNIP Grants.