NEPA Animal Welfare Collaborative Expands Efforts to Support Animals

The NEPA Animal Welfare Collaborative, formed in 2019 by the Scranton Area Community Foundation, is making significant strides in advancing animal welfare throughout Northeastern Pennsylvania. Bringing together over 40 local animal shelters, rescues, advocates and sanctuaries, the Collaborative focuses on improving the lives of animals through innovative programs, partnerships, and expanded resources.

Affordable Veterinary Care

In March 2023, the Collaborative, in partnership with Indraloka Animal Sanctuary, launched the NEPA Rescue Veterinary Clinic in Dalton. This state-of-the-art facility provides accessible and affordable veterinary care, addressing a critical gap in animal healthcare services in the region.

Spay/Neuter Initiatives

Additionally in March 2023, the Collaborative received a transformative grant from Bob Jones’ Dog Trust to promote canine spay/neuter initiatives. The funding enabled the distribution of over 150 spay/neuter vouchers, directly supporting responsible pet ownership and reducing the region’s stray dog population.

Addressing Feral Cat Challenges

In response to a rising feral cat population, exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, the Collaborative launched a Trap-Neuter-Release (TNR) initiative in partnership with the NEPA Rescue Veterinary Clinic. In August 2024, three dedicated clinic events provided free spaying, neutering, vaccinations and veterinary care for over 100 feral cats in Lackawanna County. The program has successfully mitigated concerns around disease transmission, wildlife interactions and neighborhood disruptions caused by feral cats.

New Website to Enhance Regional Animal Welfare Efforts

This month, the Collaborative will unveil a comprehensive regional animal welfare resource guide on its new website. The guide will feature essential contacts for shelters, rescues, veterinary care, trainers, and TNR programs, providing a one-stop resource for the public while easing the strain on local facilities.

These initiatives are just the latest examples of the NEPA Animal Welfare Collaborative’s commitment to improving animal welfare across the region. To learn more or get involved, visit nepaawc.org and follow the NEPA Animal Welfare Collaborative on Facebook.