When Fix Georgia Pets CEO Tricia Holder – a major IT staffing executive, United Way chair and longtime philanthropist – stepped into the organization’s leadership two-and-a-half years ago, she brought a fresh vision to an organization that has quietly transformed the landscape of animal welfare in Georgia. Fix Georgia Pets stands out as the only organization in the state with a laser focus on spay and neuter programs.  Here, SocialAtlanta contributor Caroline Bentley Edwards sits down with the organization’s executive director, CEO and president to discuss her insights into its mission, the challenges they face, and her personal passion for creating a stronger future for Georgia’s animals.

How did you first become involved with Fix Georgia Pets
My family started Fix Georgia Pets years ago, and it began as a grassroots effort fueled by a love for animals. When I took over, the organization needed new eyes on its mission. My experience with United Way gave me the perspective to approach Fix Georgia Pets as a fundraising engine specifically for spay and neuter efforts, which are critical for addressing pet overpopulation and easing the burden on shelters.

What sets Fix Georgia Pets apart from other animal welfare organizations?
We are unique because we focus solely on spay and neuter programs. Many shelters and rescue groups handle adoption, food, and operational costs, but they often lack funds for the spay and neuter portion, which is where we step in. This singular focus is essential because spay and neuter is the most effective way to reduce overpopulation, overcrowding, and euthanasia in shelters.

Why is spay and neuter such a critical piece of the puzzle?
Georgia ranked fifth for the number of animals euthanized in shelters in the United States. That just makes my heart hurt! The climate allows animals to survive year-round, which leads to continued reproduction and an overwhelming number of stray and unwanted animals. Without our programs, shelters would remain overcrowded, and the euthanasia rate would stay high. By funding these programs and partnering with local shelters, we can prevent these issues before they begin and really get a grip on this growing situation.

How do you ensure Fix Georgia Pets’ impact is meaningful and transparent?
Our grant process is robust to ensure funds go to credible organizations. We require applicants to report back with data and outcomes so we can measure the impact. By the end of this year, we’ll have distributed $326,000 in grants—the most in our history. This focus on accountability and effectiveness ensures every dollar makes a difference. While some may see that number and be unimpressed, I’d love to give some context. That $326,000 pays for roughly 4,466 spay or neuter operations, which in turn prevents 63,521 births of animals that can’t or won’t be well taken care of.

What challenges does Fix Georgia Pets face in its mission?
One major misconception is that spay and neuter programs are just optional add-ons. In reality, they’re essential for animal health and community welfare. Public education is also a hurdle, but we’re committed to spreading awareness about the benefits of spay and neuter, from preventing health issues in pets to reducing the strain on local shelters. The numbers we are seeing are staggering. Over a six year period, two unspayed cats of opposite gender can produce 66,000 cats. For dogs it is about 67,000 offspring.

What motivates you to continue this work?
Our motto, ‘Stronger Together,’ reflects our belief in collaboration. By pooling resources and working alongside shelters, we can make a real difference. Our goal for 2025 is to give a half a million in grants. Knowing that Fix Georgia Pets plays a vital role in reducing overpopulation and giving animals a better future keeps me motivated every day. 

How can people get involved?
Well one of the best ways is to attend one of our fabulous events throughout the year. We have our annual Spring Wine Fling in April as well as our Annual Gala in October! Both of these events are so much fun and really are crucial parts of our fundraising efforts to expand our life-saving programs and get more grants out there! We also partner with the Georgia Pet Foundation on their tag program where you can donate through your license plate renewal. This year we have a beautiful new tag by famed artist Kyle Brooks! Overall, just talking out us and spreading our mission helps greatly as we came from boots-on-the-ground, grassroots fundraising! And we thrive in that same spirit.