THE most recent spay and neuter clinic organized by the Saipan Humane Society resulted in surgeries for 144 cats and dogs, along with 30 consultations conducted by visiting veterinarian Dr. Mariah Coakley, according to SHS President Lauren Cabrera.
In total, 30 cats and 58 dogs were spayed, while 19 cats and 37 dogs were neutered over five days at the Garapan-based SHS clinic on Alaihai Avenue.
Cabrera said that since 2023, SHS has performed nearly 1,500 spay and neuter surgeries for on-island pets. The CNMI currently has no permanent veterinarian despite having thousands of stray dogs and cats. For these clinics, SHS arranged for Dr. Coakley’s services through support from the Banfield Foundation, which has also supported most of SHS’s past clinics.
This most recent clinic, also supported by the Saipan and Northern Islands Legislative Delegation, was held from July 1 to 3 and July 7 to 9.
Cabrera observed that there appear to be fewer stray dogs roaming around Saipan than when she first moved to the island in 2012. However, she noted that until population numbers are scientifically counted in February 2026, it will be difficult to say for sure.
SHS was founded to help the CNMI combat stray animal overpopulation through spay and neuter services — which, in addition to controlling numbers, contribute to overall animal welfare.
Cabrera emphasized the need for consistent funding to continue the organization’s work.
“We hope to continue receiving funding opportunities, because it is incredibly difficult to keep a veterinary clinic afloat here — as evidenced by our lack of a veterinarian,” Cabrera said. “It is very challenging to find grants off-island that will support our work. Most U.S. grants will not fund us because we are not a state, and international organizations cannot help because we are part of the U.S. It’s a frustrating gray area that we fall into, but we’ve still been able to do so much and are grateful to the community for bringing their pets in for care.”
According to Cabrera, SHS expects to host a visiting vet “almost every month for the rest of the year.” Residents can follow the organization on Facebook and Instagram for registration updates or email info@saipanhumanesociety.org for inquiries.
This week, Cabrera is heading to the U.S. to attend veterinary school, and she plans to come back after completing her studies.
The Saipan Humane Society facilitated surgeries for 144 animals earlier this month.
Dr. Mariah Coakley performs surgery on a pet.
