Why You Should Spay or
Neuter Your Pet
The Humane Society of the United States | humansociety.org
By making sure that
your pet can't have puppies or kittens, you'll have peace of mind that
his or her offspring won't be euthanized in an animal shelter.
Many people are surprised
to learn that nationwide more than 3 million cats and dogs are euthanized
in shelters. You might think that these are animals born in the streets
or there is something "wrong" with them. But often they are
the offspring of cherished family pets, even purebreds. Maybe someone's
dog or cat got out just that one time or maybe the litter was intentional,
but efforts to find enough good homes failed.
Still the result is
homeless animals that have to be euthanized because there are more dogs
and cats entering shelters than there are people willing to provide them
with loving care. Even if you do find homes for your pet's puppies or
kittens, that means there are fewer homes available to take in other pets
from shelters. Spay/neuter is the only permanent, 100-percent effective
method of birth control for dogs and cats.
Help your community
and yourself
Homeless animals may
get into trash containers, defecate in the neighborhood and bite or attack.
Spaying or neutering your pet means that your animal and its potential
offspring won't contribute to the population of unwanted pets.
You can also enjoy your spayed or neutered pet more. Female pets that
have been spayed do not go into heat. You won't have the mess that comes
with the female reproductive cycle or the boisterous, noisy male suitors.
Spaying and neutering may also reduce the risk of certain health problems,
offering you more years with your beloved dog or cat.
Safe and effective
Licensed veterinarians
perform the spay or neuter operation while the pet is under anesthesia.
Depending on your pet's age, size and health, he or she will stay at your
veterinarian's office for a few hours or a few days. Depending upon the
procedure, your pet may need stitches removed. Your veterinarian can fully
explain spay and neuter procedures to you. If you have a new puppy or
kitten, don't wait! Pets can become parents sooner than you think. Early
age spay/neuter is safe and effective, so talk with your veterinarian
at your pet's first visit.
Financial assistance
may be available
Spay or neuter surgery
carries a one-time cost that is relatively small when you consider the
benefits. It's a small price to pay to make sure your pet's offspring
aren't euthanized. For pets living in homes with limited income, reduced
cost procedures may be available. Humane societies work with veterinarians
to offer subsidized and affordable spay and neuter services in veterinarians
offices, in specialized clinics and even in customized mobile units that
bring safe, effective spaying and neutering into specific neighborhoods.
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