ORANJESTAD (AAN) – Aruba Supports Free Dog and Cat Sterilization Campaign as Prime Minister Mike Eman visited a free sterilization and castration event held at Graf von Zinzendorf School, highlighting the government’s support for efforts to improve animal welfare and reduce the number of stray dogs and cats across the island.
The initiative was organized through a partnership between Luna Foundation Aruba, Crossroads Animal Aid, Paws United, and Stimami Sterilisami Foundation. The event was offered free of charge thanks to Stimami Sterilisami Foundation, which covered the cost of all medications used during the procedures.
During his visit, Prime Minister Eman praised the dedication of the volunteers and organizations involved. He noted that Aruba was fortunate to receive support from a team of 55 veterinary professionals from the United States who volunteered their time to perform sterilization and castration procedures while also providing health examinations and medical treatment for animals suffering from infections, parasites, or injuries. Many of the animals were brought in by their owners, while the Royal Netherlands Navy also assisted by transporting stray animals found on the streets.
Crossroads Animal Aid founder Karyn Franz explained that the nonprofit organization is dedicated to promoting animal welfare through sterilization and population control. Each year, the organization assembles volunteer veterinary teams to participate in missions like the one in Aruba, helping reduce unwanted litters and the number of homeless animals.
Veterinarian Dr. Kelly Reagan, a member of the U.S. veterinary team, said the group specializes in performing large numbers of sterilization procedures within a short period. She emphasized that sharing their expertise with countries facing challenges related to stray animal populations allows them to make a meaningful difference in animal welfare.
Zoey Konijn, founder of Luna Foundation Aruba, said the campaign’s primary goal is to reduce the number of stray dogs and cats while promoting responsible pet ownership. She explained that the collaboration between local and international organizations demonstrates how working together can create lasting improvements for animals and encourage greater compassion and responsibility within the community.
The Aruba Supports Free Dog and Cat Sterilization Campaign reflects the island’s continued efforts to improve animal welfare through cooperation between government, nonprofit organizations, volunteers, and veterinary professionals, while addressing the long-term challenge of managing Aruba’s stray animal population.
