UHC Releases 2017 Operation Gelding Policies

The Unwanted Horse Coalition (UHC) released new policies and procedures for organizations wishing to host no- or low-cost gelding clinics through the Operation Gelding program. The new policies take effect Jan. 1, 2017, and applications for 2017 clinics are now being accepted.

The UHC voted in June 2016 to expand the Operation Gelding program by offering up to $100 per horse gelded. Program details are described in two new documents available on the UHC website. The How to Conduct a Clinic handbook is a resource guide to planning, running, and evaluating a clinic. It includes information about setting goals, creating a budget, recruiting veterinarians, marketing, post-event follow up, and tips from previous clinic organizers. The Funding Guidelines and Application Process document includes eligibility requirements, deadlines, and step-by-step application instructions.

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“Organizations can choose between two levels of funding: $60 per horse or $100 per horse gelded,” said UHC Director Jennifer Purcell. “We are asking organizations at the $100 level to help us promote and evaluate the program by providing data and information that will clearly illustrate the outcomes of the program and the benefits to horses, owners, and communities.”

The Operation Gelding program provides materials, guidance, and support to organizations to host gelding clinics for owners who may not otherwise be able to afford to have their stallion castrated. A $100,000 grant awarded by the DeWitt Fund of the Community Foundation for Monterey County will result in the castration of hundreds of stallions with a goal of preventing unwanted horses nationwide.

Individuals and organizations interested in hosting a clinic should contact the UHC office at 202/737-7325 or uhc@horsecouncil.org, or they can visit the UHC website at unwantedhorsecoalition.org. Applications for gelding vouchers will be available in December.