Today we wanted to share an episode of The United We Spay Podcast. It's a new monthly show from the United Spay Alliance and it's hosted by the one and only Stacy LeBaron. In each episode, they delve into the heart of a movement that's changing the lives of animals and communities for the better with the mission to build awareness, educate, and empower. Their episodes are always interesting and there's a lot of crossover with Community Cats Podcast's favorite topics so we thought you'd enjoy their show as much as we do. On this episode of United We Spay, they sit down with Esther Meckler and Dr. Phil Bushby, two trailblazers in the fight against pet overpopulation, to unravel the effectiveness of spay and neuter programs and how they align with animal care ethics. Esther, the founding force behind Spay USA and United Spay Alliance, shares her passionate journey towards advocating for the "fixed by five months" initiative. Dr. Bushby, with decades of veterinary experience, reveals the harsh realities of shelter euthanasia rates he saw in the '70s and champions spaying and neutering as the ethical response to this persistent issue. In a heart-to-heart that's both enlightening and inspiring, they reflect on the successes of early spay and neuter campaigns, such as the Fixed by Five movement, and discuss the landmark meeting of veterinary minds in Orlando in 2016. This gathering marked a turning point, leading to a shift in the recommended age for these vital procedures. They also explore the tangible benefits of the "Feline Fix by Five" initiative, investigating the welfare improvements and the economic and time-saving advantages for veterinary practices. Esther and Dr. Bushby's dedication to these initiatives is palpable, and their stories are a powerful call to action for all of us to contribute to a future where every pet is wanted, loved, and cared for. Join the conversation and hear how united efforts can forge a more compassionate world for our four-legged companions. In this episode, you will hear: Esther Meckler's path from Spay USA to United Spay Alliance Esther's commitment to the "fixed by five months" initiative for reducing shelter overpopulation Dr. Phil Bushby's experience at ASPCA in the '70s with high euthanasia rates The need for early spay and neuter as an ethical solution to pet overpopulation A recap of the landmark Orlando meeting in 2016, where veterinary leaders considered changing the recommended age for spay and neuter procedures to five months Celebrating the Fixed by Five campaign's success with unanimous endorsement by National Veterinary Associations The "Feline Fix by Five" initiative's benefits, including time efficiency for veterinary practices and economic advantages The critical role of early spay and neuter interventions in preventing unwanted feline populations and reducing shelter euthanasia Why veterinarians and clinics should consider joining the "Feline Fix by Five" program to help ensure every pet has the opportunity for a loving home 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.