The roots of Humane Solution Spay-Neuter Program trace back to the unwavering dedication of Winston-Salem native Leila Warren who saw firsthand the heartbreaking effects of pet overpopulation through her work with a local animal shelter – full kennels, limited adoptive homes, unvaccinated animals and animals at risk of euthanasia. Rescue wasn’t enough, and preventative care was needed, along with a way to offer the care to low-income pet guardians.

A Mission Born of Need

In 1995, Leila Warren co-founded an animal welfare organization, and volunteers began fostering, rescuing and rehoming countless animals. But, even with tireless work, the flow of unwanted pets never stopped. It became clear that rescue alone could not solve the crisis; it was treating the symptoms, not the cause. 

Expanding Services, Growing Impact

“In 1999, with the founding of Humane Solution Spay-Neuter Program, our goal was to make spay-neuter services affordable, convenient and safe through a voucher program,” said Leila. “Around 2008, we began offering pop-up vaccine clinics. We later added microchips and nail trims for dogs and cats at clinics throughout the year. In 2019, we started offering services for feral/community cats, an underserved area of animal care. Community cats live in colonies and can produce up to three litters a year with an average litter of five kittens. We use Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) and offer humane traps for caretakers to catch the cats and bring them in for spay-neuter surgery and vaccines – then return them to their original location. But, there was more to be done to address pet overpopulation.

“Our spay-neuter voucher program was working well until COVID shut down all ‘non-essential’ veterinary surgeries which included spay-neuter. Many animal hospitals were faced with a veterinarian shortage leaving hard realities about their capacity to provide services to their clients. Consequently, our voucher clients were waiting longer to get appointments to have their pets spayed or neutered. Humane Solution recognized an unused surgical suite at the Forsyth County Animal Shelter. In partnership with the county, The Solution Spay-Neuter Clinic opened last July to offer spay-neuter surgeries to shelter animals and to our voucher patients. Since opening The Solution, we have altered more than 1,800 animals which include feral cats. The clinic directly impacts unwanted litters which is the mission of Humane Solution,” Leila commented. 

A Message That Needs To Be Heard

While Humane Solution works to raise awareness of the importance of spay-neuter, the message about pet overpopulation has gotten lost over the years.

“I grew up hearing Bob Barker end ‘The Price is Right’ by saying, ‘Help control the pet population…have your pets spayed or neutered,’ but the message seems to have gotten lost over the years. I was shocked and outraged that society dealt with pet overpopulation by killing healthy, adoptable dogs, puppies, cats and kittens simply because there were too many. North Carolina has the third-highest euthanasia rate in the country. Education is sorely needed to inform the public about the reality of pet overpopulation. Prevention is key to reducing the deaths of animals in shelters,” stated Leila.

‘Tails and Ties – A FIXED Affair

As a 501 ©(3), Humane Solution operates on the generosity of those in the community, and what better way to raise awareness than a fun event?

Tails and Ties – A FIXED Affair is a gala that will be held September 20, 2025, from 6:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m. at the elegant venue, Robert Hall in downtown Winston-Salem. “Join us for an unforgettable evening featuring handcrafted cocktails, a delicious catered dinner and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Guests will have the opportunity to participate in both silent and live auctions, all while enjoying a special program that highlights the incredible impact of Humane Solution Spay-Neuter Program. As we celebrate 25 years of effective and compassionate community involvement, we’ll reflect on the lives changed and the progress made. All funds raised will go directly toward medical expenses for spay-neuter services – supporting our mission to reduce pet overpopulation, improve animal welfare and expand our operations,” said Carol Maurin, Humane Solution Board Member and Gala Chair.

Sponsorship opportunities as well as auction item donations can be sent to [email protected]. Tickets will go on sale July 20th. More information is available through humanesolution.org.

As Humane Solution Spay-Neuter Program enters another year, the foundation for future growth in services is well established. Plans include a rebranding of the organization, expanding services at The Solution Spay-Neuter Clinic and increasing community outreach, leading to a better understanding of the issue of pet overpopulation.

For more information on Humane Solution and The Solution Spay-Neuter Clinic, visit humanesolution.org. Humane Solution welcomes donations of supplies as well as monetary donations. Volunteer opportunities are also available.