Spay, Support & Save the Date!
It’s been a busy season at Plymouth Helping Hands for Animals—supporting emergency pet care, collaborating with local partners, and expanding our community impact.
This week, we’re sharing Stella’s incredible story—a powerful reminder of why spaying and neutering matters more than ever. Plus, we’ve got a limited-time fundraiser with our friends at The Muttmix, and a save-the-date for our annual Golf Tournament this September. Read on to see how you can make an impact—right now and in the months ahead!
Stella’s Story
Just a couple of months ago, we received a call from Christina, the devoted owner of a sweet dog named Stella. Stella had been feeling unwell, and her vet initially suspected pneumonia or a urinary tract infection. She was sent home with antibiotics—but things quickly took a turn for the worse.
After a follow-up ultrasound, Stella was diagnosed with pyometra—a severe, life-threatening uterine infection that required emergency spay surgery. Christina scheduled the surgery for the following Monday and reached out to us for help covering the cost. But by Friday night, Stella’s condition became critical. Rushed to an emergency vet, it was clear she needed surgery within 12–24 hours to survive. The emergency team stabilized her overnight, and arrangements were made for surgery the next morning at the MSPCA Nevins Farm Clinic in Methuen.
The takeaway? Spaying is the only way to prevent pyometra in female dogs and cats—before it becomes a costly, life-threatening emergency. Stella was one of the lucky ones. Now, we’re working to ensure more pets never face that kind of crisis. Together, we can make prevention the norm.
Spay & Neuter Saves Lives
Sadly, we too often see the consequences of delayed or inaccessible spay/neuter services. In just the past two months, we’ve helped cover emergency surgery costs for four female dogs with pyometra—a life-threatening condition that can be prevented.
Did you know? While pyometra is more common in dogs, female cats are also at risk—especially if they've gone through multiple heat cycles. Spaying is the only sure way to prevent pyometra.
These situations are painful for pets, heartbreaking for owners, and financially overwhelming. But the good news? They're preventable—with access, awareness, and community support. That’s why we’re spotlighting these powerful local resources.
Low-Cost Spay & Neuter Resources
Access to affordable spay and neuter services can make all the difference. Here are two great options for eligible pet owners:
MSPCA-Angell Cape Cod
The MSPCA Cape Cod Clinic in Centerville offers affordable spay and neuter services for pet owners who qualify.
Services include: Spay/neuter for dogs and cats, reduced rates based on income eligibility, and assistance for pet owners receiving government benefits. Learn more and apply using the link below.
Standish Humane Society – Cats Only
Standish Humane Society in Duxbury provides low-cost spay and neuter services exclusively for cats. Ideal for cat owners looking for an accessible option to keep their pets healthy and help prevent overpopulation. Register online or learn more using the link below.
We’re Here to Help You
If you qualify for the MSPCA or Standish Humane's low cost spay/neuter program but need help with the expense, Plymouth Helping Hands for Animals may be able to assist. We’re committed to removing financial barriers so more pets can live longer,
healthier lives.
By supporting preventive care now, we reduce suffering later. Every pet spayed or neutered today means fewer emergencies tomorrow. Let’s work together to stop preventable illness—and save lives—before it’s an emergency.
Contact us using the link below to ask about assistance.
Or donate to help more pet owners in need access lifesaving care.
Fur Real Facts: Why Spay & Neuter Matters
Need a refresher on why spay and neuter matters? Here are some surprising stats to keep in mind.
67,000 puppies: One unspayed female dog and her offspring can produce over 67,000 puppies in just 6 years.
2 million cats: One unspayed cat can lead to 2 million descendants in 8 years. Spaying stops the cycle.
90% risk reduction: Spaying female pets before their first heat reduces their chance of mammary cancer by up to 90%.
Safer males: Neutered pets are less likely to roam, fight, or spray—and they often live longer!
Cost comparison: Emergency pyometra treatment can cost $1,000–$3,000+. Spaying ahead of time is safer and far less expensive.
Support Our Friends At The Muttmix!
NOW THROUGH MAY 31st
Now through May 31st, our wonderful friends Kathy and Amy at
The Mutt Mix are hosting a fundraiser to benefit Plymouth Helping Hands for Animals! Shop with purpose at www.themuttmix.com and know that 10% of all sales will go directly toward helping local animals in need right here in our community. The Mutt Mix is a dog lover's apparel store that promotes “peace through paws” all over the world!
Follow and Support The Muttmix:
Facebook: www.facebook.com/themuttmix
Instagram: @themuttmixmarket
Email: themuttmix@gmail.com
Phone: 617-653-9505
Thank you, Kathy and Amy, for giving back in such a pawsitive way!
Save The Date: Golf For A Cause!
Missed our Pawsta Party? Don’t worry—here’s your chance to plan ahead and swing into action for our next big event!
Join us for our 5th Annual Golf Tournament Fundraiser on
Saturday, September 13th, 2025
Squirrel Run Country Club, Plymouth, MA
Enjoy a day of friendly competition, raffles, prizes, and support for a great cause—all to benefit Plymouth Helping Hands for Animals. Whether you're a seasoned golfer or just out for some fun, this is an event you won’t want to miss.
Mark your calendar and stay tuned—registration details coming soon!
