The Potter Spay and Neuter Clinic in Warwick is among nearly two dozen animal welfare programs across the state that is sharing $530,000 in grants from the Rhode Island Foundation. The funding will support a range of uses including reduced-cost veterinary care for pets in low-income households, preparing animals for adoption and seal rescues.

"The pleasure that pets bring to our lives spills over into our own health and well-being. Keeping pets healthy and preparing animals for adoption is just one way the Foundation helps Rhode Islanders lead healthier lives,” said David N. Cicilline, the Foundation’s president and CEO. “We could not offer this help without the generous support of the donors who establish funds with us for this purpose. Their generosity – together with the dedication of our grantees – is increasing the quality of animal care in Rhode Island.”

The Potter Spay and Neuter Clinic in Warwick was awarded one of the largest grants, receiving $30,000 to subsidize surgeries and transportation for pet owners with financial challenges.

 "In our commitment to the well-being of pets across Rhode Island, we extend our care to animals from various corners of the state. Our philosophy remains grounded in the belief that every animal should have access to veterinary care and a safe haven. Our clinic continues to serve as a beacon of accessible veterinary care for beloved pets," said Brad Shear, Potter’s CEO.

 In the past year, the Warwick clinic performed 5,689 spay or neuter surgeries, which the organization reports is substantially higher than last year.

 "The demand for care continues to grow for various reasons, including heightened public awareness of our services, a rise in referrals from private veterinary practices, and an increasing financial strain on pet owners. By assisting those with the greatest need, we alleviate the burden on pet owners, sparing them from difficult decisions about prioritizing veterinary expenses over other necessities or facing the heartbreaking choice of relinquishing their pets due to financial constraints," said Shear.

Donors established 14 special funds that enabled the Foundation to create its Program for Animal Welfare (PAW) program. PAW funds organizations that promote and provide humane treatment of animals or work more generally on the welfare of animals. Grants are for projects or programs that have a positive impact locally or statewide on animal care, education about the humane treatment of animals and animal welfare in general.

PawsWatch in Johnston, the East Greenwich Animal Protection League, Friends of Animals In Need in North Kingstown, the Audubon Society of R.I., Mystic Aquarium and are among the other organizations that received grants.