SNiP-It of Central Florida, Osceola County’s non-profit, low-cost, high-quality spay/neuter animal clinic, has re-opened from its own coronavirus-related closure, performed its 20,000 surgical procedure this week, and held a small celebration to mark the occasion.
The lucky patient for the milestone procedure is Ash, a 10-week-old kitten found abandoned in a neighborhood.  He has been adopted following his surgery and will be headed to a great home, providing another positive aspect of the “Don’t Shop, Adopt” mantra of animal rescue for getting pets.
This is a great sign for an organization who’s services are well-received and needed in our community. Family pets along with strays — SNiP-It has sterilized as many as 50 strays on Community Cat days — all with the support of clients, donors and the community.
When the COVID-19 virus hit, the clinic was able to remain open under the “essential business” definition, but chose to close in late March for the benefit of the health and welfare of staff since it does not provide emergency services.
The clinic secured a PPP loan through great banking relationships and re-opened May 8 and was able to avoid laying off employees. SNiP-It reopened to a list of patient clients and busy days — and in the midst of it all realized that it would be hitting the major milestone of the 20,000th surgery.
“We are so excited and proud of the work we do and want to share the great news when positive publicity is so hard to come by these days,” said SNiP-It Executive Director Sheila Westerveld.

With the help of the community, SNiP-It Clinic can now move on to reach 25,000 or even 30,000 spay and neuter surgical procedures in the coming months and years. Donations of goods such as towels, sheets, cleaning supplies, office supplies, and of course cash are also welcome.

Volunteers are also welcome and very appreciated. Go to LetsSNiPit.org or call 407-476-4748 (4-SNIPIT) for information.