(HARTFORD, CT) — The Connecticut Department of Agriculture (CT DoAg) announced that the Animal Population Control Program’s (APCP) Low-Income program to assist eligible residents with spaying or neutering their cat or dog, will open in January 2027. This move will facilitate greater ease of booking appointments with participating veterinarians within the 60-day voucher period and provide pet owners with ample lead time to budget accordingly for any additional associated costs.
“We recognize that many residents’ wallets are feeling the constraints of increased costs, and that includes pet care,” said Agriculture Commissioner Bryan P. Hurlburt. “We’ve also heard that opening our program before the holidays is challenging for users when resources are already limited. Shifting the APCP Low-Income opening date is one small step we can take to ensure pet owners are empowered to properly care for their dog or cat, which in turn reduces the strain on shelters statewide.”
To be eligible for the low-income program, pet owners must reside in Connecticut and receive benefits from one of five programs through Department of Social Services at the time of application. Those programs include Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Husky A, C, or D (Medicaid), State Administered General Assistance (SAGA), Temporary Family Assistance (TFA), and/or State Supplement. Residents who meet the program’s income eligibility guidelines are encouraged to register their account online now at apcp.ct.gov.
Announcements will be made public one week before the program goes live in January 2027 at which time applications can be submitted. All applications must be completed online.
Questions about the Animal Population Control Program can be directed to agr.apcp@ct.gov or by calling 860-713-2507.
Established in 1995, the Animal Population Control Program aims to reduce pet overpopulation and reduce the spread of rabies and other diseases through immunization. It is funded by an annual surcharge on Connecticut dog licenses, adoption fees, and proceeds from the sale of the “Caring for Pets” commemorative license plates, and donations. To date, the program has benefited over 250,000 animals across Connecticut.
