Tauranga veterinarian Rebecca Walker is a cat’s whisker away from realising her dreams as the Vet Post Charitable Trust prepares to launch its first phase.

“Mr Snippy” will work with the Tauranga City Council, along with rescue shelters, to offer a mobile desexing programme, Walker said.

The programme offers affordable desexing, microchipping and vaccinations to help reduce the number of strays and prevent disease outbreaks, Walker said.

“We’re stepping in where the system is breaking down,” said Walker. “Too many animals are breeding, getting sick, and being abandoned. We’re here to change that.”

Mr Snippy will charge $30 per cat and up to $100 per dog for the full package, which includes spaying or castration, vaccination and microchipping.

To qualify, animals must come through a rescue group, council or clinic.

Walker said the team would prioritise low-income pet owners and rescue organisations already under pressure.

Members of the public must hold a Community Services Card and complete a vetting questionnaire.

The Mr Snippy mobile trailer.

The programme plans to run one surgical day a week and three to four multi-day campaigns each year. Each surgery day will desex up to 10 dogs or 20 cats.

While the charity has not confirmed a permanent base, it plans to take the trailer clinic on the road, setting up in areas most in need.

Eventually, the team hope to operate in a new community every fortnight.

Walker and her team have started mapping out key areas of need by working closely with local councils, charities and vet clinics.

While most bookings will come through these partnerships, the public will also have access to the service.

Walker will lead all procedures, supported by a qualified veterinary nurse from Vet Post and a team of volunteers.

She also hopes to bring more vets on board as the project expands.

To launch the mobile clinic, the trust needs to raise $70,000 to complete its custom trailer. Annual running costs are expected to match that figure.

Rescue shelters have experienced a significant surge in the number of incoming cats and dogs, and these services are struggling to keep up, Walker said.

“The community is crying out for help,” said Walker.

“This isn’t just about desexing – it’s about creating lasting change for animals, owners and the environment.”

Eventually, Mr Snippy and the Vet Post Charitable Trust will grow beyond the borders of the Bay of Plenty, Walker said.

“The dream is to have a Mr Snippy in every region in New Zealand.”

The trust also plans to deliver animal welfare education as part of its long-term strategy.

To donate or volunteer please visit: Fur-raising Program | Vet Post New Zealand