Frankfort, Kentucky, December 18, 2025
The Kentucky Department of Agriculture has introduced a redesigned spay and neuter specialty license plate for the first time in over 20 years. Featuring a playful illustration by Lexington artist Hayli Strickland, the plate aims to promote responsible pet ownership and provide funding for spay and neuter services in the state. Proceeds from the sales will support the Animal Control and Care Fund, which has already facilitated over 17,200 spay and neuter procedures since its initiation.
Frankfort, Kentucky – New Spay and Neuter License Plate Design Unveiled
Frankfort, Kentucky – The Kentucky Department of Agriculture has unveiled a redesigned spay and neuter specialty license plate, marking the first update in over 20 years. The new design features a playful illustration by Lexington graphic artist Hayli Strickland, depicting a kitten and a dog peeking from the top and bottom of the plate against a green background. The message “Spay or neuter your pets” is displayed with a red heart-shaped pawprint overlapping the text.
Proceeds from the sales of these specialty plates support the Animal Control and Care Fund, which is administered by the Animal Control Advisory Board. Established in 1998 by the Kentucky General Assembly, the board evaluates applications for spay and neuter grants to Kentucky counties and municipalities. Since its introduction, the specialty plate has generated more than $600,000 in grants, resulting in over 17,200 cats and dogs being spayed or neutered across Kentucky.
The new personalized plates are available at County Clerk offices statewide or through the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet’s website. Agriculture Commissioner Jonathan Shell emphasized the importance of responsible pet ownership and the need to reduce the stray and homeless pet population, noting that Kentucky has 411 animal shelters and animal welfare organizations, highlighting the necessity for increased efforts to control the pet population.
Background on the Spay and Neuter License Plate
The spay and neuter specialty license plate was introduced to raise awareness about the need to reduce the population of stray and homeless animals in Kentucky. Over the years, it has become a familiar sight on Kentucky roads, serving as a reminder of the importance of spaying and neutering pets to control the pet population and promote responsible pet ownership.
Availability and Purchase Information
Kentucky residents interested in obtaining the new spay and neuter license plate can do so by visiting their local County Clerk’s office or by ordering online through the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet’s website. The plates are available for both new vehicle registrations and renewals, providing an opportunity for all Kentucky drivers to support this important cause.
Impact of the License Plate Program
The funds generated from the sale of spay and neuter license plates have had a significant impact on animal welfare in Kentucky. The grants awarded have enabled numerous organizations to offer spay and neuter services, contributing to a decrease in the number of stray and homeless animals. This initiative underscores the state’s commitment to promoting responsible pet ownership and addressing the challenges associated with pet overpopulation.
Encouraging Community Participation
By purchasing the redesigned spay and neuter license plate, Kentucky residents can actively participate in efforts to control the pet population and support animal welfare organizations across the state. The new design serves as both a functional vehicle registration and a statement of support for responsible pet ownership and the reduction of stray and homeless animals in Kentucky.
Additional Resources
For more information on the spay and neuter license plate program, including details on purchasing the plate and the impact of the funds raised, residents can visit the Kentucky Department of Agriculture’s website or contact their local County Clerk’s office. Engaging with local animal welfare organizations and participating in community initiatives can further contribute to the well-being of pets and the reduction of stray and homeless animals in Kentucky.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the new design of the Kentucky spay and neuter license plate?
The new design features a playful illustration by Lexington graphic artist Hayli Strickland, depicting a kitten and a dog peeking from the top and bottom of the plate against a green background. The message “Spay or neuter your pets” is displayed with a red heart-shaped pawprint overlapping the text.
How can I purchase the new spay and neuter license plate?
The new personalized plates are available at County Clerk offices statewide or through the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet’s website. They are available for both new vehicle registrations and renewals.
What is the purpose of the spay and neuter license plate program?
The program supports the Animal Control and Care Fund, which is administered by the Animal Control Advisory Board. The funds have generated more than $600,000 in grants, resulting in over 17,200 cats and dogs being spayed or neutered across Kentucky.
How has the spay and neuter license plate program impacted animal welfare in Kentucky?
The grants awarded have enabled numerous organizations to offer spay and neuter services, contributing to a decrease in the number of stray and homeless animals. This initiative underscores the state’s commitment to promoting responsible pet ownership and addressing the challenges associated with pet overpopulation.
How can I get involved in supporting animal welfare in Kentucky?
By purchasing the redesigned spay and neuter license plate, Kentucky residents can actively participate in efforts to control the pet population and support animal welfare organizations across the state. Engaging with local animal welfare organizations and participating in community initiatives can further contribute to the well-being of pets and the reduction of stray and homeless animals in Kentucky.
Key Features of the Spay and Neuter License Plate Program
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Design | Playful illustration featuring a kitten and a dog peeking from the top and bottom of the plate against a green background, with the message “Spay or neuter your pets” and a red heart-shaped pawprint overlapping the text. |
| Availability | Available at County Clerk offices statewide or through the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet’s website for both new vehicle registrations and renewals. |
| Purpose | Supports the Animal Control and Care Fund, administered by the Animal Control Advisory Board, with funds generating more than $600,000 in grants, resulting in over 17,200 cats and dogs being spayed or neutered across Kentucky. |
| Impact | Enables numerous organizations to offer spay and neuter services, contributing to a decrease in the number of stray and homeless animals, and promoting responsible pet ownership and addressing pet overpopulation challenges. |
| Community Involvement | Residents can support animal welfare by purchasing the redesigned license plate and engaging with local animal welfare organizations and community initiatives to further contribute to the well-being of pets and the reduction of stray and homeless animals in Kentucky. |
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