Rescues and Shelters

25% of MN SNAP's subsidized surgeries are for rescue and shelter pets.

MN SNAP provides high-quality and affordable spay and neuter services to qualifying 501(c)(3) rescues and shelters across the state of Minnesota.

Rescues and shelters must meet qualifications and be registered with MN SNAP in order to receive subsidized surgeries for the pets in their care. As of March 1, 2019, MN SNAP isn’t accepting new applications for rescue or shelter partners. We’ll open registration as we’re able.

More information on services for rescues and shelters:

Any rescue or shelter organization that receives services from MN SNAP must be a federally recognized 501(c)(3) organization and provide a copy of its Federal Letter of Determination to MN SNAP’s Program Manager at [email protected]. You will then be provided a contract for services along with pricing information.

  • Kittens must be at least eight weeks old and weigh at least two pounds.

  • Puppies* must be at least eight weeks old. *Toy breed puppies must be at least three months old.

  • Pets must be healthy, hydrated and eating the day of surgery.

  • Pets should eat as they do normally – fasting is not necessary.

  • Our anesthetic protocol does not require pets to be fasted. In fact, we discourage it.

  • Dogs must taken out to potty before check-in.

  • Pets must be temperamentally sound or muzzled.

  • Pets must arrive in a carrier or kennel with bedding.

  • Carriers/kennels must be marked with the rescue/shelter name and pet names.

  • Animals that are pregnant or in heat can be safely spayed.

  • A pre-surgical physical exam will determine:

    • Pet’s gender

    • Sterilization status

    • Weight

    • Hydration level

    • Activity level

    • Body condition

    • Heart sounds

    • External parasites

    • Presence of an umbilical hernia

    • Obvious signs of disease such as vomiting, diarrhea, coughing or sneezing

    • *Patients with skin disease will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis.

    Also included:

    • Free nail trim for all dogs, cats

    • Sterilization certificates

    • Post-surgical instructions

    • Core vaccination information

    • Go-home pain medication for dogs and female cats