EXCELSIOR SPRINGS, Mo., Sept. 20, 2025 – The rumble of classic engines and the shine of polished chrome filled the NAPA Automotive parking lot Saturday as Operation SNIP ’EM hosted its first annual Wheels for Whiskers car show. More than 50 vehicles were entered in the event, which combined a love of cars with a mission to curb pet overpopulation.
Operation SNIP ’EM, which stands for Spay and Neuter Initiative Program, launched earlier this year and has already helped more than 300 pets receive spay and neuter services. The nonprofit provides low-cost vouchers for families who may otherwise struggle with veterinary expenses. Participants in the program must reside in Caldwell, Carroll, Clinton, Lafayette, or Ray counties, or Excelsior Springs, and meet certain income guidelines. Discounts range from $75 off cat surgeries to $100 off dog surgeries.
Addressing a Crisis
Assistant Director Taylee Dorton said the car show is about more than just raising money; it’s about raising awareness.
“Every single shelter is busting at the seams,” Dorton said. “They can’t catch up. The root cause of the problem is spaying and neutering, and our mission is to make those services affordable so families don’t have to surrender pets.”
Founded by Director Amy Pearson and supported by Chief Marketing Officer Jessica Johnson, the nonprofit partners with nine veterinary offices across the region to make surgeries accessible. In addition to vouchers, Operation SNIP ’EM offers trap-neuter-return services for community cats and plans special events such as Angel Day, a free spay and neuter clinic for pit bulls and pit mixes scheduled for October.
Community Turnout
Dorton said organizers were thrilled with the turnout for the first-time event.
“We weren’t sure what to expect. We only had about 10 cars preregistered, but by the time registration closed, we had over 50,” she said. “The support from the community means we can continue our mission and help even more pets.”
All proceeds from Wheels for Whiskers go directly back into the program to provide vouchers for families in need. With plans to make the car show an annual fundraiser, organizers hope the event will grow into a mainstay for both car enthusiasts and animal lovers in Excelsior Springs.
For more information about Operation SNIP ’EM, including voucher applications and upcoming events, visit snipandrescue.com.
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