ACC&D brings together researchers, disciplines and institutions to speed discovery of new contraceptive technologies for dogs and cats. Members represent the following collaborative interests: academics (research and teaching), animal welfare, veterinary practitioners, the pharmaceutical industry, funding foundations, and regulatory agencies.

Because these products are not yet seen as a major opportunity for pharmaceutical company profit, efforts to achieve this vision must be spurred on by those who are committed to saving pets’ lives. To get involved, visit the ACC&D web site at www.acc-d.org. ACC&D looks toward the day when one or more methods to sterilize dogs and cats (approved and widely available) are

• Safe (for animals and for the humans administering)
• Permanent
• Deliverable in a single injection or treatment
• Affordable for use in indigent, or low income client populations
• Fully effective in both males and females

At ACC&D’s Third International Symposium in November, 2006, 120 speakers and participants gathered to advance progress in developing and using non-surgical contraception to manage dog and cat populations. World experts in dog and cat reproductive biology presented and assessed the newest research and combined perspectives with experts in animal health drug development. Veterinary leaders joined with animal welfare and advocacy groups, foundation representatives and others to look at “where we are”, what is possible and what is needed to advance this work. Proceedings of the Third International Symposium can be found at http://www.acc-d.org/2006%20Proceedings

ACC&D is currently exploring additional ways to impact and support both the development and distribution of pet contraceptives worldwide, studying methods used by non-profits in human health areas. Current activities include

• Working with Abbott Animal Health and animal welfare partners (including the ASPCA and HSUS) to help ensure an effective and impactful launch of Neutersol in the U.S.
• Evaluating the regulatory process for and economic feasibility of manufacturing zinc gluconate in Mexico for distribution and use in that and other Central and South American countries. (Zinc gluconate is the drug that will be distributed under the brand name “Neutersol” in the U.S.)
• Collaborating with holders of early stage technology for female cat and dog sterilant to support, advise, and expedite advancement of this approach.
• Assessing the potential impact of a three-year contraceptive for female cats as a tool for feral cat colony management.
• Raising awareness, demand and support by reaching out to animal welfare organizations, veterinarians, pet keepers, and donors.

Please visit the ACC&D website (www.acc-d.org) to learn more. You can also join the ACC&D e-mail list to receive updates on the work of ACC&D and developments in the field (use the form on the right side of the ACC&D home page). You can reach ACC&D by e-mail at info@acc-d.org.