THE Cat Protection Society of Victoria (CPSV) is urging City of Whittlesea residents to support its Benevolent Fund, a critical lifeline providing financial assistance for emergency veterinary care to keep cats safe, healthy, and at home with the families who love them.
As cost-of-living pressures stretch Victorian household budgets to breaking point, CPSV is seeing a surge in “heartbreak surrenders” — where owners are forced to give up a beloved pet simply because they cannot afford an unexpected vet bill and its Benevolent Fund acts as a safety net for emergencies.
CPSV is working at the grassroots level to reduce surrenders through its partnership with the City of Whittlesea.
CPSV Marketing and Communications Manager Rachel Bitzilis said the collaboration with Whittlesea is essential for long-term community impact.
“Desexing is one of the most effective ways to reduce anti-social behaviour and roaming, but it also alleviates the future financial burden of unplanned litters on families already doing it tough,” she said.
“While we have a formal contract with Banyule, our team is dedicated to supporting Whittlesea residents whenever capacity allows, ensuring fewer animals are dumped or surrendered in the community.”
By delivering free community desexing, CPSV is helping residents meet their requirements as responsible pet owners while curbing the overpopulation of unwanted kittens that often end up in the shelter system.
CPSV encourages Victorians to donate to help more families access urgent care. Tax deductible donations can help provide the following essential services.
$50-$100 can provide immediate pain relief and stabilisation
$200-$400 can provide diagnosis such as blood tests, X-rays, or ultrasounds
$2000 + can help provide emergency surgery and critical care treatment
To donate visit https://catprotection.com.au/support-us/benevolent-fund/