The Mohawk Hudson Humane Society received two grants for the purpose of spaying and neutering animals in the Capital Region. Together, the grant money totals $30,000.

The money comes from the state’s Animal Population Control Fund, which is administered by the ASPCA. The funds are the result of surcharges on every dog license in the state (outside of New York City) as well as the state’s spay/neuter license plate.

Half the money will go to the society’s Feline Fix program which spays and neuters cats and the other half will go to the Buck-A-Bull program which is dedicated to sterilizing pit bull type dogs.

“We are very excited about this new funding,” said Brad Shear, MHHS executive director in a statement.  “This grant money means we will be able to do even more to prevent the growing population of animals in the Capital Region and ultimately save more animals’ lives.”

A scrap metal drive was held to help the family of Duke Ellington, who happens to be their beloved family cat.

Cascades Tissue Group in Mechanicville held the drive and raised over $12,000. A check will be presented on Monday to the Ballston Spa Clinic for Duke Ellington’s vet bill which amounts to $4,400 and the Saratoga County Animal Shelter which amounts to $8,000.

The cat was badly injured when he was hit by a car on Central Avenue in Mechanicville and the driver took off without checking on the cat. The cat underwent surgeries including wiring his jaw shut and has been recovering. The cat is Ethan Dancz’ best friend and both Ethan and his family are grateful for the support they have received.

The group is also donating $500 to the Estherville Animal Shelter.