Could the key to transforming animal welfare lie within the simple act of spaying and neutering our pets earlier? On this episode of United We Spay, we 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 Feline Fix by Five 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, we reflect on the successes of early spay and neuter campaigns, such as the Feline Fix 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. We 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 Feline Fix by Five 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 Feline Fix 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 Sign up to include your veterinary practice on our list of Feline Fix by Five Participating Veterinarians - https://www.unitedspayalliance.org/feline-fix-by-five/get-involved/veterinarian-sign-up/  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.