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Public Funding

Passing Legislation for State-Funded Spay/Neuter: New Hampshire

In 1994, local humane societies in New Hampshire spearheaded a successful legislative campaign to establish a state-wide, targeted, low-cost spay/neuter program funded by a $2 surcharge on dog licenses.

"Lobbying isn’t rocket science." 
STOP

What it Takes

  • Community assessment to determine how to target the program.
  • State-mandated dog licensing to generate a consistent revenue stream.
  • Knowledge of the legislative process.
  • Many people to lobby for passage of the legislation.
  • Participation of veterinarians across the state.

What We Like
  • The low-income provisions and the support of the veterinary community are key elements of passing of the legislation and of the ongoing success of the program.
  • New Hampshire's euthanasia rate declined 77%, resulting in the lowest state euthanasia rate in the nation.
  • The program has served as a model for similar legislative efforts across the country.

Step by Step

  1. Download the complete profile. (.pdf)
  2. Assess for yourself whether this program is right for your agency.
  3. Grab the sample materials and get started.
  4. Tell us how it goes.

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Summary Report (.pdf)