Auburn University to continue development of a vaccine that may provide an alternative to surgical spay and neuter for cats and dogs

Auburn, Al.
The Scott-Ritchey Research Center at the Auburn University College of Veterinary Medicine and Vaxin Inc., have received a $1 million grant from the Found Animals Foundation to continue development of a vaccine that may provide an alternative to surgical spay and neuter for cats and dogs, according to a press release from the university.

According to the Found Animals Foundation, six to eight million cats and dogs enter U.S. shelters each year, and about half are euthanized.

While animal sterilization has long been recognized as an integral solution to the problem of overpopulation, standard surgical techniques of spaying and neutering have obstacles such as high costs and the need for trained veterinary surgeons and appropriate facilities. 

According to the press release, a single-dose of the sterilant, administered in the field at a reasonable cost, "would be an ideal solution, and would save lives and end suffering for millions of companion animals throughout the world."