Grant ID: 1710
Title of Proposal: Focus on Ferals 2017
Agency Type: Non-Profit
Total Funding Requested: $24,590.25
Check Payable To: Clay County Humane Society, Inc.
Application Information
Demographics
Name of Applicant Agency: Clay County Humane Society, Inc. Website Address: www.ClayHumane.org
Person Submitting Proposal: Claire Hall Position: Deputy Director
Person Submitting Proposal Email Address: [email protected]
Agency Head: Linda Welzant Agency Head Email: [email protected]
Organization Business Address: 2230 Filmore Street City: Orange Park
State: FL Zip: 32065
Phone (xxx-xxx-xxxx): 904-276-7729 Fax: 904-276-4236
Cell: 904-626-1267    
 
Agency Details

Date of 501(c)(3) Incorporation: 05/02/1981
Dates of Last Fiscal Year: Begin: 01/01/16    End: 12/31/16
Organization Income in Last Fiscal Year: $2,305,049.00
Organization Expenses in Last Fiscal Year: $2,277,321.00
Number of Paid Employees: Full Time: 26  Part Time: 4
Number of Active Volunteers: 60
Total Volunteer Hours per Week: 50.00
How did you learn of the 2009  Florida Animal Friend grant competition? Previous Recipient
Year(s) of previous Florida Animal Friend grants (if applicable):
Previous Florida Animal Friend Applications: Years Funded: 2005,2007,2011,2013,2015 Year(s) denied/incomplete: 2010
Auto-Generated (Previous Applications):
Grant #Proposal YearProposal TitleStatus
16020102010 Spay CampaignDenied (not completed)
2672011Feral Friday CampaignFunded
3692013Operation Free Cat SterilizationFunded
14892015Free FeralFunded
15872006 Funded
15882008 Funded
17102017Focus on Ferals 2017Funded
Describe your Organization:
Services Provided Organization Structure:











List your current board of directors:

NameTitlePhoneOccupation
Bob EhrenbergDirector904-264-9377Computer Consultant
Chris KeyworthDirector904-272-6733Retired Educator
Doug HavensDirector904-272-4311Navy Contractor
Jerry MilanSecretary904-272-5130Retired Sheriff's Office
Judy SteblerVice President904-465-1135Nurse
LInda LakePresident304-910-2440Supervisor - Seminole Electric
Lisa LemenDirector904-282-7422Loan Officer
Mary FortsonTreasurer904-608-3133Retired Community Hospice

Applicant Qualifications
For your organization, in the last complete fiscal year:
0  cats and 28  dogs were admitted.
0   cats and  28   dogs were adopted.
0   cats and  0    dogs were euthanized.
0   cats and  24    dogs were sterilized.
  
Briefly describe your animal programs:
 
If your program performs adoptions, are all animals sterilized before adoption? 
Yes
If not all, what percentage of animals are not currently sterilized before adoption? 
n/a
If not all, how are animals selected for sterilization before adoption? 
n/a
If not all, describe your sterilization policies and procedures for assuring sterilization after adoption:
n/a  
Give additional background information on your organization's programs as they relate to this application and the qualifications of the personnel who will be in charge of this program. Show that you have the ability to carry out this program. 
For 39 years, the Clay County Humane Society has been on the front line battling the pet overpopulation problem. Our skilled veterinarians and support staff often perform greater than 200 spay and neuter surgeries per week and are dedicated to our mission of ending the senseless euthanasia of healthy cats and dogs in our shelters.
If you currently have a program for sterilization of cats and/or dogs, describe your current level of funding and productivity and why additional resources are needed? 
Since Clay Humane shifted our efforts from a no-kill shelter to a high volume, low cost spay and neuter clinic in 1991, spaying and neutering has been our top priority. Over 86,000 animals were sterilized at significantly reduced prices. However, it was realized that, even with these low costs, there was still a significant population that remained unreached. In response, Clay Humane launched its most aggressive approach to battling the pet overpopulation problem - completely FREE cat sterilizations available to all cat owners and colony caregivers, animal rescues, and municipal shelters. Since the programs inception in October 2013, 18,353 cats, including 4,530 ferals, have been spayed or neutered at no cost to the owners/ caregivers. Because the program has no expiration, requires no special qualifying, offers a no appointment required day dedicated to feral sterilizations, and has been widely publicized, we have been able to reach the previously "unreachable" populations in our community. As only the second such program in existence in the country, our free cat sterilization campaign has faced overwhelming demand. We increased our daily surgical intake and more than tripled the total number of cat spays and neuters performed in previous years to accommodate the community demand. Each year, we find new opportunities, employ more staff, and seek more funding to support the continued growth of the program.. Our efforts are only limited by the amount of funding provided by our wellness clinic income, private donations, grants, and fundraisers. Funding from Florida Animal Friend would help offset financial constraints created by self-funding a program of this magnitude.

Target Population
Geographical target area (name of city, county, zip codes, geographical Information service (GIS), etc.):
Northeast Florida to include Clay, Duval, St. John's, Baker, Nassau, and Putnam Counties with a focus on Clay County 
Total human population in target area: 967,000 
Percent of residents living below poverty in target area: 9.8 
Estimated number of pet cats in target area (human population divided by 3.3): 293031 
Estimated number of pet dogs in target area (human population divided by 4.0): 241750 
Estimated number of feral cats in target area (human population divided by 6.0): 161167 
Number of cats admitted to animal control shelters in the target area last year (if known) n/a 
Number of dogs admitted to animal control shelters in the target area last year (if known) n/a 
Number of cats euthanized in animal control shelters in the target area last year (if known) n/a 
Number of dogs euthanized in animal control shelters in the target area last year (if known) n/a 
Please explain if you believe your target area animal population is significantly different than above.
At the time of our program's inception in 2013, our Clay County Shelter alone took in 2526 cats. In 2014, the shelter's intake decreased to 1942 and continued to drop in 2015 to a total cat intake of 1499. 2016 provided the most significant testament of our program's impact, as only 743 cats entered the shelter. This 71% decrease represents the most significant in shelter history, particularly as it is coupled with unprecedented human population growth over the same time period.
Please explain what you believe are the most substantial sources of dog and cat overpopulation in the target area:
 Our community is a mostly rural area comprised of middle to low-income families. Few sterilization programs exist in the large target area capable of serving those whose budgets do not allow for even reduced rate care. Our program focuses on these populations and provides an alternative to unwanted litters, shelter surrenders, and increasing feral colony numbers
What kinds of spay/neuter services are currently available in the target area and in what ways are these resources currently insufficient to meet community needs?
Private veterinary clinics are available in the community, but tend to not be affordable for the target population. Additionally, the few free programs that have been available are limited in the numbers they can perform because of program qualifications, appointment backlogs, and limited funding.
Florida Animal Friend is highly supportive of proposals that are focused on animal populations that are identified as substantial sources of dog or cat overpopulation rather than being diluted over too broad of a geographic area or diverse animal populations. Describe the specific target animal population of the spay/neuter project proposed for this grant:

  
 
TNR Managed Colony Feral Cat Program/Community Cats (Free-Roaming and/or Owned) Program
Define the precise boundaries of the colony or targeted area, including estimate of square miles.
Our primary focus is feral and owned cat populations in Clay County, but we extend our free services to surrounding counties' cat owners and colony caregivers, as well. With help from our last Florida Animal Friend funding, we were able to sterilize greater than 700 previously identified PLUS an additional 450 feral cats and nearly 3500 other owned or community cats in our target area. Our 2017 goal is to increase upon these numbers to sterilize 1500 feral cats (approximately 640 identified in
 
What is the criteria used for determining the target area(s) and/or eligibility for this program?
Our focus is colonies/ free-roaming populations within our own county, but Clay Humane's goal is to provide free sterilizations for any cat from any area. There are no eligibility requirements, aside from caregivers assuming responsibility for future care/ oversight of colonies/ individual ferals. We, both, seek out colonies in the area and are solicited by other organizations/ individuals for help with feral populations.
 
Describe whether the targeted area is rural, suburban, or urban. Is it commercial, residential, agricultural, or a designated special land use?
The specific colonies we are currently targeting are divided among both urban/ commercial areas and rural/ wooded areas. Currently targeted Clay County populations are primarily rural - located in the lowest income area of the county.
 
Estimated number of cats in the target colony area : 2300  
Estimated number that are currently sterilized: 0
Projected reduction after utilizing the grant:  2300
 
For TNR program, describe the ability to maintain lifelong care for remaining cats, commitment level of volunteers/organizations, etc.
The specific colonies we are currently targeting are divided among both urban/ commercial areas and rural/ wooded areas. Currently targeted Clay County populations are primarily rural - located in the lowest income area of the county.
 
Do current city/county ordinances address TNR or free-roaming cats?
Yes

Please explain what is allowed:
Following lengthy debates in 2013 before our County Commissioners, the combined efforts of area animal welfare advocates prevented mass trapping and euthanasia of feral colony cats. TNR measures were approved for identified and future managed colonies with Clay Humane taking the lead on these efforts.
(NOTE: FAF will not fund any program this is inconsistent with local ordinances.)
 
For TNR program, list any groups or government agencies who support this TNR effort:
We are supported in our efforts by many rescue groups, our local animal care and control agency, by community cat advocates, and by our county commissioners and Town of Orange Park Council. We assist Clay County Animal Care and Control in their TNR efforts, as well, and work together to reduce cat intake in the shelter toward a goal of a no-kill community.
 
Describe any effort to lessen the negative impact on local wildlife.
As licensed wildlife rehabilitators, we have seen first hand the negative impact roaming cats can have on wildlife. AS such, it is our goal to eliminate through adoption/ relocation programs, cat colonies existing on public wooded lands first. These colonies remain a consistent priority of our efforts and the visible effort to protect wildlife helps foster goodwill among wildlife and cat advocates.
 
Describe efforts that will be made to mitigate current or potential nuisance issues.
Over the years, we have been called upon to assist with colonies on commercial lands that were facing euthanasia due to nuisance complaints. In many cases, Clay Humane performed sterilizations of the cats, provided colony management education, assisted with rehoming adoptable cats, and, on occasion, relocated others to private property as required.
 
Will the cats be ear-tipped? Yes
Will the cats be microchipped? No
 
Provide any additional information that will help the grant selection committee understand how this program will operate to achieve its goals.
Since its inception, our free program has provided free sterilizations for more than 18,000 cats. We work closely with landowners, animal control agencies, and caregivers to identify and sterilize cat populations in our communities. Although exact numbers of unsterilized free-roaming or feral cats in our target area are unknown, we are committed to continuing to identify and manage these populations through our spay and neuter efforts.
 
Objectives
What do you hope to accomplish with these funds (objectives should be specific and quantifiable)?
Our goal since the inception of our free cat sterilization program has been to significantly reduce the number of healthy cats being euthanized in our shelters by first reducing the number of cats entering the shelter. A no-kill Clay County shelter is attainable only through sustained spay and neuter efforts and, through this one-of-a-kind program, Clay Humane will help our county achieve this goal. Through the use of social media, our website, bi-weekly television segments, print media, outreach at civic and county events, and through cooperative efforts with community organizations, we will continue to search out those previously unreachable populations until no animals are senselessly euthanized in our shelters simply because of unplanned, yet completely preventable breeding and overpopulation. It is our goal to perform 1500 free feral and an additional 800 owned or free-roaming cat spay and neuter surgeries in 2017, potentially preventing the birth of thousands of unwanted litters.
How does this program increase the number of sterilization surgeries above the existing baseline?
The current number of free cat spays/ neuters is determined by the amount of funding our wellness clinic, private donations, foundation funding, and fundraising monies can support. Florida Animal Friend funding would enable us to increase our current baseline by 2300 cats.
Methods
What criteria will you use to determine eligibility for your program? 
Aside from the currently identified and targeted feral and low income owned cats, one must only have a cat or maintain a feral colony in order to qualify for our free services.
How will you advertise the program? Explain how the advertising will reach the target audience.
Because of its uniqueness, this program is heavily advertised in our area through social media, organization newsletters, during the "Ask the Vet" segment on our local news morning show, at fairs and education booths, through print and media campaigns organized by our public relations manager, and through word of mouth. Clay Humane's name has become synonymous with cat spaying/ neutering in our community and will continue to market this program until we have reach all cat caregivers.
How will you address barriers to full use of the program such as transportation, illiteracy, and cultural hurdles? 
By working cooperatively with local shelters, rescue groups, volunteers, colony caregivers, media outlets, and local business owners, we are better able to identify those in need, including feral populations. Together we have been able to trap and transport as needed, and release, maintain, and control the growth of colonies and, in turn, shelter intake numbers.
Does this project involve the transportation of animals by someone other than the client? If so, describe the vehicles, methods for confinement, personnel training, liability releases used to assure the safety of the animals and handlers.
The program does not directly involve the transportation of animals by anyone other than the owners/ caregivers. However, we will provide limited transportation through trained staff and volunteers should the need arise.
Veterinary Services
 

What arrangements have you made with veterinarians to perform the surgeries? 
Clay Humane has operated a low cost full service clinic since 1991. We currently staff 4 full time veterinarians and five relief veterinarians. Our veterinarians share our passion for a more humane world and work tirelessly to achieve our goal of a no kill community through spay and neuter efforts.
Are they:  
 

Veterinary Practices
Practice NameAddressCityStateZipPhoneLead Practice
Clay County Humane Society, Inc. 2230 Filmore StreetOrange ParkFL 32065904-276-7729

Fee Range
What is the fee range to be paid for spay and neuter and what is the distribution to be paid by the client vs. the grant program? Keep in mind that Florida Animal Friend grant funds may only be used for costs directly associated with sterilization surgery (including anesthesia and pain control) and not for other items such as vaccines, testing, licensing, and capital purchases.
Amount Paid by Client Amount Paid by Project Total Amount
Range for Male Cats
Range for Female Cats
Range for Male Dogs
Range for Female Dogs
Please check each item below to indicate additional services offered at the time of surgery, whether the client is required to pay for them, and if so what the fee is. For example, if an examination is required for surgery but is not charged to the client it would be marked: Required  Yes, Fee to client No
Required, Optional, or Not Offered Fee to Client?
Examination   
Rabies Vaccination if Due   
Other Vaccination if Due   
Pain Medication   
Parasite Medication   
HW Testing   
Feline Leuk/FIV
County License   
Ear tipping   
Microchip
Other   

None of the anticipated grant funds can be used for any of the above services, except for pain medication.
If necessary, please explain the procedures and fees described above: 
Each day, the Society offers 25 free cat sterilizations (up to 75 on Feral Wednesdays). Costs associated with each cat spay/neuter includes veterinary exam and surgical time, rabies vaccination, anesthesia, pre and post-op medications, and surgical materials. Additonal vaccinations, testing and preventative treatments are always recommended, but not required. Funding would allow for 1500 feral cats, and 800 owned to be sterilized (assuming continued 65% female:%35 male trend to continue).  
Is this a voucher program? No
 
If so, how will you assure compliance with the program?

 
For your voucher program, how have you determined the capacity of the veterinarians listed above to handle the projected capacity?
 
 
Will you have the ability to report the number of vouchers issued and the percentage that result in S/N surgeries?

 
Community Collaboration
To assure the success of your program, are there any local groups (such as rescue groups, animal control agencies, TNR groups, local businesses, local media, social service agencies,etc.) other than your organization and your cooperating veterinarians who are committed to assist?
 
 
Please list them and detail their level of involvement with the proposed effort.
NameLevel of Involvement
CatBugs Cat RescueCatBugs is one of the most recognized cat rescues in Clay County, and, as such, has knowledge of most area colonies. In the past, CatBugs volunteers have helped identify, trap, transport and care for colony cats targeted through the program.
Clay County Animal Care and ControlAs our county animal control agency, CCACC has a long history of collaborative efforts with Clay Humane. Understanding the mutual benefits of spaying and neutering programs in our community, CCACC supports and promotes our efforts.
Friends of Clay County Animals (FOCCA)As the volunteer group for CCACC with a focus on increasing adoptions within the county shelter, FOCCA shares our primary objective of reducing shelter intake. Together, we focus on TNA efforts through our county shelter.

 
Other Information
Provide any additional information that will help the grant selection committee understand how the program will operate to achieve its goals.
 Now, early in its 4th year, our free cat sterilization program has seen much greater success much sooner than expected. Our county shelter cat intake numbers have decreased by 71%, as our yearly number of sterilizations performed each year has quadrupled. With funding to offset costs, we will only continue to increase our numbers each year.
Budget
Total number of sterilization surgeries projected:
Cats: 2300    Dogs:  0 
Total budget requested (Budget should not exceed $25,000): $24,590.25 
Average cost/surgery projected: $11.00 
Describe any expenses that are not included in the grant and how they will be paid for (for example, vaccines, microchipping, ear notching, etc.):
Expenses not included in the program/ grant are at owner/caregiver's expense. For those expenses that are necessary, but not affordable to owner/ caregiver, the Society has a longstanding indigent care program funded through private donations and allocated funds from our wellness clinic budget.
 
Describe any other funding sources for this program, i.e. other grants, targeted fundraising efforts, budget allocation, etc.
Allocated funds generated via our wellness clinic, private donations, "spay it forward" contributions, and fundraising events throughout the year, currently fund the sterilization program. A 2016 grant from Petco Foundation helped offset 2016 costs and increase our baseline. Every penny funded goes toward increasing our current budgeted numbers of 3500 total per year, so 100% of the additional spays/neuters would be funded by this grant.
 
What percent of the total cost of the program would this projected grant cover?
100%
Timeline
All projects must be completed within 12 months of receipt of funding.
Projected start date: 10/01/17/     Projected end date: 09/30/17
 
Unexpended funds
Any unexpended funds must be refunded to Florida Animal Friend within 30 days of the end of the project.

Requests for extensions
Requests for time extensions are discouraged and not often granted. If it is imperative to request an extension, such request must be made in writing at least 30 days prior to the end of the project. It is FAF’s policy to seldom grant more than a 30-60 day extension.

Failure to submit reports and requests within the required time period will impact your agency’s future grant applications.
 
Future Funding to Sustain Public Spay/Neuter
*Explain how the organization plans to fund this program in the future. Having sustainable plans including other grants, local donations and other services generating revenue enhances the chances of receiving this grant.
As noted, our wellness clinic has supported our spay and neuter programs since our clinic's inception in 1991. Although we have budgeted funding to ensure the program's survival, it is not enough to meet the community demand. We have been fortunate to receive additional funding via foundations, grants, and private donations throughout the free program's short history, and have developed outstanding community support because of its noteworthy impact in recent years.
Promotion of Florida Animal Friend Spay/Neuter License Plate
*Applicants selected for funding are expected to publicize their grant in support of their spay/neuter program and promote the sale of the Animal Friend license plate via press releases, newsletters, website links, social media, etc. Please describe your plan to promote the Florida Animal Friend Spay/Neuter License Plate. Grantees are required to submit documentation of promotional endeavors with their final report.
Promotion of the license plate can be found continuously on our website and social media pages year round, as well as noted regularly in print media and in our quarterly newsletters. We also promote the Florida Animal Friend license plate at educational booths at local fairs, festivals, community events, and through civic groups. Funding is mentioned regularly on the "Ask the Vet" segment of the local morning show news program on which Dr. Christian Broadhurst appears bi-weekly.