thanks to the generous support of
A woman donor from Issaquah, WA
Anonymous Fund of the Whatcom Community Foundation
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What's included
Everything is completely free
Every service at the Big Fix is provided at no cost to you. Open to everyone.
Spay/Neuter Surgery
Safe, humane surgery by HQHV-trained specialists from Greater Good Charities
Core Vaccines
Rabies + DHPP for dogs · Rabies + FVRCP for cats · Included with every surgery
Microchipping
Every owned or rescue surgical patient receives a free microchip for permanent identification
Pet Food & Supplies
Pet food and supply distribution available at the event while supplies last
Important information
What you need to know before you come
Arrive very early
This is a first-come, first-served event with NO appointments. Our best advice is to arrive as early as you can, and follow us on social media for capacity updates.
Limit 15 animals per vehicle
To serve as many families as possible, there is a limit of 15 animals per vehicle or vehicle-trailer combination. Please be respectful of this limit.
Follow us for updates before & during
TOAR posts daily updates on Facebook during the event including wait times, tips, and what to expect each day. Following our page before the event is the best way to stay prepared.
Check-in takes several hours
Bring water, snacks, and something to keep yourself comfortable. Check-in wait times can be several hours depending on your position in line. Your patience makes this possible for everyone.
DAY-OF_TIPS
How to prepare for your visit
A little preparation makes a big difference — for you and your pet. Here's what to bring and what to expect.
Arrive EARLY
Line forms very early. Capacity is reached by 5 AM most days — arriving at dawn gives you the best chance.
Bring food & water
Check-in can take several hours. Come prepared with snacks and water for yourself — this is a long morning, but well worth the wait.
Secure your pets safely
Dogs should be on a leash. Cats must be in a carrier. Keep pets calm and contained while waiting in line. Need to borrow a carrier - just ask!
Plan for a full morning
Pets are typically ready for pickup in the afternoon. Plan to drop off in the morning and return later.
Fast your pet before surgery
Fast your pet before surgery. No food after midnight the night before. Water is okay.
Post-op care instructions
You'll receive written after-care instructions when you pick up your pet. Follow them carefully for a smooth recovery.
No appointments — this is completely first-come, first-served. Arrive early.
Maximum 15 animals per vehicle or vehicle-trailer combination. This limit helps us serve as many families as possible.
Yes — completely free. Spay/neuter surgery, core vaccines, and microchipping are all included at no cost.
Greater Good Charities brings in a team of specially trained, high-quality, high-volume (HQHV) surgical staff to perform safe, humane spay/neuter procedures.
No. We do seperate Vaccine and Microchip clinics and Pet Pantry Events for animals that are already fixed.
You will be notified when your pet is ready for pick-up. Most animals recover quickly — rest, limited activity, and watch the incision site.
Follow TOAR on Facebook for daily updates during the event, including tips on what to expect, estimated wait times, and preparation advice for each day.
common QUESTions
FAQ
From past events
See the Big Fix in action
Every year hundreds of volunteers, staff, and community members come together for four incredible days. Here's a look at what it's like.
