Guide to Spaying and Neutering Cats

When it comes to de-sexing one's cat many owners have a crisis of conscience; should I have my lovable puss spayed or my gregarious tom neutered? Rest assured, a sterilized cat lives a happier, healthier life and often makes a much better pet than an intact animal.

Be aware that if you don't have your beloved pet 'fixed-up' it may be prone to a host of feline diseases and ailments, and if you've ever smelt the pervasive odor of an intact tomcat's urine you'll be straight off to the vet without a moments hesitation!

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With a male cat (neutering or castration), both testicles are surgically removed. The procedure is done under general anesthetic and for the testes to be removed only tiny incisions are needed, usually with no stitches required. Kittens and adult cats can be neutered starting as young as six months old before puberty strikes, however some claim that the operation can occur at an even younger age than this; consult your vet. Your post-op infertile cat should become less aggressive and territorial, will roam less and, thankfully, won't spray that horrid scented urine! An added benefit is that your tom will not develop testicular cancer and will have a lesser chance of suffering prostate problems.

For female cats (queens), renowned for being very efficient breeders, it is wise to have them spayed by six months of age. In springtime and in households with more than one cat, reproduction can actually occur earlier than this. A cat in heat often displays strange behavior, with distinct howls and pained writhing so be alert to these signs. Spaying or 'ovariohysterectomy', surgically removing the uterus and ovaries, is performed under general anesthesia. The incision in the cat's abdomen is closed up with stitches often needing removal after 10 days. As with toms, de-sexed queens are less likely to develop certain diseases; the chances of having malignant breast cancer or 'pyometra' (uterine infection) are greatly reduced.

Although neutering and spaying are irreversible procedures it is worth reminding that tens of thousands of unwanted cats are put to death each year in the United States alone. Considering this alarming statistic it may be a wise idea to seriously consider having your beloved pet neutered. The procedures are safe, affordable and if any post operative complaints occur it is a simple matter of returning to the Vet for further advice.

Be responsible and have your cat de-sexed and be content in knowing that none of your beloved companion's positive personality traits will be affected.

Guide to Spaying and Neutering Cats

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Spaying & Neutering

The dogs of today have come a long way from those of 5 or even 10 years ago. Not only can you book your dog in for a few hours at the local Doggy Daycare, but you can buy them jackets or outfits that will bring out the color of their eyes, pamper them with a day at the Dog Spa where they can get a "Pawdicure" done with just about any shade of Nail Polish, and feed them a large array of diets varying from kibble to wet food to even raw meat.

With the major advancements in canine health it is hard to believe that even though so many pets today are spoiled beyond belief, that there are millions that go everyday without anything to eat, or a place to sleep or even an owner to take care of them. In today's society there are puppy mills running steadily and selling their "products" to pet stores, backyard breeders selling accidental litters for large profits and that the issue of spaying and neutering dogs is still not quite considered serious or necessary.

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So many people wish to breed their dog "at least once" in their lifetime just for the sake of having puppies that will either be sold to the first person interested or perhaps to the highest bidder. Shelters and municipal pounds are overcome by the amount of unhomed dogs in their care. Its overwhelming to say the least and is extremely difficult to open an abundance of these facilities.

Sadly even though most shelters have a packed house, there are still millions of dogs (and cats) that are homeless throughout the nation. Spaying and neutering is a very necessary procedure for today's animals. Although raising dogs from puppyhood can be a fulfilling achievement, it is more important to be able to grasp a hold of the problem that has been created.

From the view of a veterinarians side, spaying or neutering your dog will bring many potential health problems to an end. In females alone, there will be no risk of Pyometra, and no possible risk of cancers of the uterus, ovaries, or mammary glands. In neutered males, there will be no potential risk of testicular cancer, they will present much less aggression towards other dogs or animals, and will reduce the urge and even the act of marking. From the medical view of sterilizing (spaying or neutering) your dog, there are many more pros then there are cons.

The negatives of sterilizing your dog would be that they cannot reproduce. An obvious con but crucial nonetheless. Nowadays it is not uncommon to have litters upon litters of puppies being born in shelters. Although this is a sad yet very real occurrence, the staff at these shelters take it upon themselves to see to it that the lives of these puppies will not end up like their mother. Spaying or neutering puppies can be done as young as 2-3 months of age as long as the dogs are healthy.

There has been much controversy over this action as some have protested that this will have a negative affect on their development or that this will deny them their fullest growth potential, which is not true. If anything, sterilizing a puppy at a younger age is as safe and will enable them to recover from the surgery quicker than they would if the procedure was done at an older age.

Spaying or neutering, although done daily in a veterinarians office, may seem like a scary surgery to a new dog owner. This procedure is a quick, safe, efficient and a very necessary surgery that will normally take under 25-35 minutes. This is done completely under anesthetic so the dog has absolutely no recollection of the surgery and will go home the same day.

Either dissolvable or regular stitches will be used to suture the surgical site and a cone or Elizabethan Collar (E-Collar) will be issued so the dog does not try to lick or tend to the site. There is no pain medication to go home and recovery is usually between 14-21 days. Suture removal will be done between the 7-14 day mark after the surgery, and from then onwards, the dog will be at no risk of becoming impregnated or will not be able to reproduce.

Spaying & Neutering

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The Truth About Spaying and Neutering For Cats

All cats should be spayed or neutered by the time they are six months of age. Cats who are neutered or spayed live longer, healthier lives than those who are left intact, and many generally become more affectionate.

Neutered (or castrated) males will not have a tendency to spray to mark their territory, and if they are allowed to go outside, they will not be as inclined to fight with other cats or wander the neighborhood. Neutering is a simple procedure and may require an overnight stay in the vet's office.

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Spaying a female is a little more involved and is often more expensive than neutering. She will undergo surgery to remove her reproductive organs and also will need to spend the night in the veterinary clinic. A spayed female will not go into heat or cry to be let out to look for a mate.

If you adopted your cat or kitten from an animal rescue organization or shelter, he may already be altered. Many pet organizations spay or neuter all animals they put up for adoption to avoid contributing to the pet overpopulation problem.

Bring your child to the vet's office for an educational experience. Depending on her age and level of understanding, you can explain why your cat needs to see the vet (or cat doctor) even if the animal is not sick. Some older children are very interested in their pet's health care and will be happy to be included in the exam room at this time.

Ask the vet to explain each step of the process during the checkup. If your child has questions about the cat's general behavior or health care routine, encourage her to ask the vet directly. Most are happy to answer questions from children and are pleased to see them taking responsible role in pet care.

The Truth About Spaying and Neutering For Cats

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Neutering and Spaying - Part of Total Ferret Care

Neutering or spaying processes are generally applied as part of administering total ferret care. Spaying female ferrets does prevent illnesses caused by excessive heat. On the other hand, neutering male ferrets does prevent the so called unwanted ferret smell.

Ferrets do become sensitive if subjected to adverse conditions such as heat. Many owners opt to have their ferrets either spayed or neutered before bringing them into their place. Shelters also advise these processes as essentials of ferret care. For these individuals, neutering or spaying ferrets prevent these pets from being ill or getting sick.

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There are occasions wherein adopted or bought ferrets are not necessarily spayed or neutered. Most common causes include buying domestic ferrets directly from breeders. Additional cost is also prevented since some pet shops do sell intact ferrets. On the other hand, first-time owners tend to ask, "What are the benefits of neutering or spaying your ferret?" Below are stated reasons and guidelines.

1. When female ferrets or jills reach the age of four months, the so called 'heat cycle' so begins. This cycle will continuously go on unless she undergoes protection. This process is aptly called a Jill jab. As a component of female ferret care, Jill Jabs are given to create an interruption in the heat cycle, thus allowing hormones to work.

There are instances wherein owners substitute Jill Jabs in place of spaying. However, it is strongly suggested not to do so since spaying has long-term benefits. Furthermore, a Jill Jab is also given to prepare a female ferret for spaying.

2. Neutering processes, meanwhile, are part of male ferret care. Neutering is also recognized to affect male ferrets' behavior such as nipping and biting.

3. Ferret odor is also prevented if male ferrets are neutered. While the procedure may not totally get rid of ferret odor, it will somehow help in lessening such smell.

4. Neutering or castration should also be performed once your male ferret reaches the age of four months. It is also strongly suggested to avail of the procedure before your pet reaches four months.

Neutering or spaying your ferrets does affect the sexual nature of your pets. For some, these ferret care procedures aid them in lessening problems and other ferret diseases. While these ideas may be true, the fact remains that total ferret care does not only involve medicines and food. For in the long run, you have to consider your pet's well-being and overall condition.

Neutering and Spaying - Part of Total Ferret Care

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Doberman Pinschers - The Importance of Spaying and Neutering

What is the importance of spaying and neutering your Doberman? According to the Humane Society, approximately three million dogs or more are euthanized each year. Sent to shelters because they have been abandoned or because their owners can no longer care for them. The over-population of dogs in animal shelters has reached major proportions.

While the aforementioned statistic is hard to imagine, it is nonetheless true. This is why animal advocates constantly remind the general population to have their dogs spayed or neutered. There are other reasons why this method is recommended.

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Dogs have an innate desire to breed. It's just a fact. More importantly, however, spaying and neutering can prevent cancer. In addition, neutered male dogs will less likely want to run away or engage in rough-housing with other male dogs. Male dogs are inherently territorial. If he isn't neutered, then he will use his dominance over other dogs particularly when a female is involved.

Spaying and neutering your dog does not mean they will become lazy, gain weight, or have a personality change. All the procedure does is to prevent your dog from seeking out other dogs to mate with. According to the Humane Society, ".... in six short years, one female dog and her offspring can give birth to hundreds of puppies."

Imagine if you will that there are millions of pet owners. Now imagine if each pet were not spayed or neutered and the offspring were thrown in garbage bags, left by unscrupulous owners to fend for themselves, or bred in puppy mills to make a quick buck. There have been countless incidents which bear out these facts.

Unless you are a breeder, there is no reason not to have your dog spayed or neutered. The result would reduce the number of homeless dogs lying in wait for someone to adopt them, reduce the number of dogs roaming the streets for scraps, and reduce the likelihood that dogs will attack pets.

Owning a dog comes with a responsibility to ensure the pet is happy, safe, and lives in a welcoming and caring environment. Conversely, a dog that is put to sleep due to over-population could have been someone's life-long companion. This is why adoption is preferred.

Although puppies are the first to be adopted in shelters, it is often the case that adult dogs can only be kept for a certain amount of time due to the over-population of dogs in this country. Thus, they face a grim future.

In an effort to reduce the number of dogs, a spaying and neutering program has begun in some cities and has resulted in a 30%-60% decline in euthanasia.

While this is good news, it is up to all individuals across the nation to not only spay and neuter their pets, but adopt them as well. What other choice do we have?

Doberman Pinschers - The Importance of Spaying and Neutering

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SPAYING

Spaying and Neutering Your Puppy

Dogs develop into sexually mature dogs after about six months of age. Female dogs begin their reproductive cycle at this time. This cycle involves persistent periods of heat, during which males are fascinated from big distances by an odor coming from the females. It is only during the heat periods that females will accept a male. This period of strong desire to get out and find a mate is connected with egg discharge from the ovaries. Below you will find some information as to what spaying and neutering your puppy entails. In the bitch, heat takes place about every six months and lasts for a period of about two to three weeks. This is accompanied by enlargement of the vulva and a bloody expulsion from the vagina. The highest level of fertility is usually reached from the ninth to the thirteenth day after the beginning of bleeding.

If you are looking to spay your puppy, you would want to know that this includes a surgery that is carried out in an operating room, and your puppy will be under a general anesthetic. This procedure involves the removal of the ovaries, the fallopian tubes and the uterus through an incision that is made into the abdomen. After this operation is performed, your female dog will not come into heat again.

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This can be done when your dog is still a puppy, as there is no advantage in waiting for your dog to have a heat period or one litter before spaying her. Spaying has no effect on the temperament of the female, and your puppy will not have difficulty in hunting or obedience training.

Some of the advantages of an Ovariohysterectomy include your female dog will be less inclined to wander from home, male dogs will not be attracted to your property, there will be no unwanted pregnancies and your bitch will also not have a bloody discharge because of being on heat.

If you are planning on neutering your male dog, you will want to know that this involves an operation where the testicles are being removed. As a result the male hormone and source of the sperm will be eliminated. This operation entails removing the testicles, thereby eliminating the source of sperm and male hormone. It is usually suggested that this is done for all male dogs if you have no intentions to breed with them.

If you are looking into neutering your dog, you will be able to control some of the following problems. They include wandering away from home, aggressiveness, extreme territorial marking with urine and mounting on people and other dogs.

If you are neutering your male dog when still a puppy, you will also abolish the likelihood of tumors developing on the testicles and on the prostrate gland.

Spaying and Neutering Your Puppy

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Goldie on the Importance of Spaying and Neutering

Hey folks! I want to tell you a little bit about pet overpopulation, and why it is so important to have your pet spayed or neutered.

The Humane Society of the United States estimates that 6 - 8 million dogs enter our nations shelters each year. Less than one-third of these are reclaimed by their owners. Do you know what happens to most of the dogs that can't be adopted out to new families?

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That's right. They are euthanized - that means their innocent lives are ended.

It is estimated that close to half of the dogs that enter shelters in this country are euthanized. Half! Can you believe that? I'd be terrified if I ended up in one of these shelters, knowing that my chances of making it out alive were only 50/50. Luckily, the shelter that I ended up in was a no-kill shelter.

What, you ask, do all those statistics have to do with spaying and neutering? Everything. It is possible for a female dog to have two litters a year. A canine litter produces an average of 6 - 10 puppies.

Think about this: If your dog has 10 puppies, then after they become adults (let's say at 2 years), they each produce 2 litters of 10 puppies in the next 3 years. Those puppies each produce 2 litters of 10 puppies after age 2. In five years, your one dog has contributed to THOUSANDS of puppies! Where will you ever find homes for all those adorable puppies? Chances are, you won't.

Not only does spaying and neutering help reduce the pet population, but it also has benefits for your pet. It helps your pet live a longer, healthier life. It reduces the risks of several cancers in both male and female pets.

Neutering your male dog early will help reduce unwanted behaviors like roaming (in search of females in heat), marking territory, and getting into fights over females.

Spaying your female dog eliminates her heat cycle, which in turn eliminates some messy clean-ups. Females in heat can exhibit nervous behavior, roam, and attract unwanted males. Males will even climb a fence (or dig under it) to get to a female in heat.

Many people think that their pet will become fat and lazy, or have a personality change. Overfeeding and lack of exercise, not spaying or neutering, will make your pet fat, and if there is a personality change it will only be slight, such as your pet being slightly calmer. I can tell you that I am the same sweet girl I was before, and I am less nervous and better behaved.

All of the pets that live in my house have been spayed or neutered. None of us has suffered any ill effects. We are all happier and healthier because of it.

If you can't afford to have your pet spayed or neutered, check with local animal welfare organizations, such as your local Humane Society, or SPCA. Many organizations sponsor low-cost spay/neuter programs.

Goldie on the Importance of Spaying and Neutering

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Spaying and Neutering (What Your Vet Does Not Tell You)

Exact figures for the UK are uncertain, but it is generally accepted that there are around seven million dogs and nine million cats, which is a 5-year upward spiral for the cats and a slight decline in the number of dogs. This reflects out changing lifestyle with the trend for smaller housing, staying single and both adults fully employed, this would tend to make a cat an easier option.

Approximately 135,000 stray dogs per annum are picked up in the UK. 400 are destroyed every week. In the USA the figures are very different, they have almost 70 million dogs almost twice as many per household as the UK. 8 million to 12 million dogs and cats are euthanised annually. It has been suggested that only 50% of all dogs born in the USA will survive to see their second birthday. This is not because they are not caring or loving owners, but simply because they have no organised program for neutering and spaying.

SPAYING YOUR DOG

The USA has many more latchkey dogs than the UK, therefore creating far more unwanted pregnancies. Left to there own devices. two dogs and their offspring can produce 67,000 young over a 6-year period. Two cats and their offspring can produce 420,000 over a 7-year period.

As a practicing behaviourist and obedience trainer, I am often called to discuss whether the owners should spay or neuter. I find in general that my male clients (the human ones) get a pained expression and cross their legs in agitation when the subject of castration arises. They generally have no problem with spaying; it is the castration that causes the concern. Yet the opposite is true from my female clients. Who often tell me that their husbands will not entertain their dog being emasculated. yet the have no problem with the concept themselves.

Myths of Spaying and Neutering

My pet will become fat and lazy:

It is true that in many cases dogs and cats will tend to have a larger appetite after either spaying or neutering. However, we control the intake of food and the amount of exercise, if we allow them to have a sedentary lifestyle, then obesity may be a problem.

It is better to let my pet either mate or have one litter first:
Where this idea comes from I do not know, reproduction is a biological event in cats and dogs and given they are not cognisant they do not yearn for a family in the way humans do. Allowing a male to cover a female does not quench his appetite for sex it actually enhances it. He can subsequently become a serial roamer and a Houdini type escape artist.

Neutering may affect my dog's emotional identity:
Dogs do not cognitively possess a macho identity. Concerned owners should ask their veterinarian about a product called neuticals. It is an implant available for neutered males "they are artificial gonads". Some owners believe their pet will miss them! Not something that I would personally have done but there you go it takes all kinds to make a world. It may not surprise you to learn that these are more commonly used in the USA.

I want my dog to be protective in the home:

Spaying and neutering does not affect the natural instinct to guard and protect.

I can't afford to have my pet spayed or neutered:

Many veterinarians have spay or neuter programs for regular clients. Check your area for low cost spay/neuter centres. Alternatively, adopt from a Rescue Centre, as the pets are often spayed or neutered prior to adoption.

Benefits of Spaying and Neutering Your Dog

Spaying and neutering can make for a better pet and a more affectionate family companion. It is a medical fact that spaying and neutering can prolong the life of a pet and reduce the number of health problems in later life.

Females can benefit from spaying by reducing the incidence of uterine or ovarian cancers; it also prevents dogs from getting uterine infections later in life. An infected uterus called Pyometra, it is a serious and potentially fatal infection.

The heat or season lasts about 3 weeks, and is twice a year for dogs and six times a year for cats. Neutering a male reduces the incidences of prostate and testicular cancer. Male pets are less likely to develop unwanted behaviour's such as marking of territory, sexual aggression, and mounting.

Males are less likely to escape, roam the neighbourhood, or fight with other dogs. Vets depending on their outlook recommend that dogs are spayed or neutered anywhere between 5 to 14 months of age, before the first oestrus cycle in females and prior to males developing a testosterone related behavioural problem.

I do have some serious reservations: One of the problems that have been discussed within PAACT the Professional Association of Applied Canine Trainers, of which I am a founder member, is the affect of spaying and neutering very early, whilst the dog is still physically and mentally immature.

It is our belief that we are seeing many more cases where the dogs are showing (paedomorphic tendencies), that is puppy like behaviours in adult dogs possibly related to the incidence of early spaying and neutering. Progesterone has a calming effect in both humans and dogs so to remove this before the bitch has had a chance to mature may create similar problems as early castrated males. We have also observed that bitches spayed too early may be far more interesting to intact males; therefore unwanted male attention may cause the dog to become aggressive and protective of her space in later life.

My personal belief is males should not be castrated until they have been cocking their leg for at least one month, and should be at least 10 to 12 months old depending on breed and size,(larger dogs mature later) unless their is medical or serious behavioural issues. In females, it should be after her first season you should wait approx 3 months after finishing the season whilst everything settles down before spaying.

Many vets will neuter a dog before they have cocked their leg, this means that the testosterone burst that occurs at about 10 months will not happen. At this point dogs start to seriously cock their legs and start to mark territory, If you castrate before this the males may continue to squat. in reality the marking may start earlier, but it is distinctive that they now mark by trying to reach as high as possible to spread their scent and cover the smell of other dogs.

The testosterone burst clearly turns on a dormant, hard-wired program that establishes this high cocking behaviour, many hard-wired behaviours are not isolated to just one behaviour and other functions that are not so obvious may be switched on at this time. These may have social functions or psychological effects that aid in the development of the critical periods in your dogs psychological growth. If we switch these off by neutering or spaying early, we may be denying the dog the opportunity to achieve its full adult potential.

My concern with early neutering is borne out of observation, many dogs that have been neutered before the leg cocking stage appear to retain more juvenile characteristics that those that are neutered afterwards. In other words, they retain perpetual puppy like characteristics, whilst this may be endearing in a small dog, who wants a 4-year-old Great Dane who bounces and leaps on you and everything else in sight, and who also shows a low concentration level associated with much younger dogs?

Studies have been done by vets in the States to observe the affect of castration and spaying on a physical level, but I have found none that have been done to observe the effects on a behavioural level. It has been observed that females that show aggressive behaviour to their owners under six months of age then spaying may increase this aggression. This is from the Canine Aggression Workbook by Dr James O'Heare one of the worlds leading authorities on canine aggression

"It would appear that dogs who demonstrate control complex aggression (aka dominance aggression) toward owners prior to 6 months of age are at risk for becoming more aggressive after ovariohysterectomy. If a dog demonstrates a significant propensity to control complex aggression it may be wise to avoid spaying these dogs" James O'Heare" 2003.

This may be related to the production of progesterone a naturally produced calming hormone which is removed through spaying. However, I must point out I am not a Vet or medically qualified, therefore you should always discuss the pro's and con's with your own Veterinarian. These observations have come from a number of trainers and behaviourists, but are not part of a study in laboratory-controlled conditions.

I do believe we need to set a good example for future generations of pet owners, spay and neuter your pets, but me mindful of the pitfalls, remember, if you are not part of the solution you are part of the problem.

Spaying and Neutering (What Your Vet Does Not Tell You)

Stan Rawlinson

Dog Behaviourist and Obedience Trainer, who has owned and worked dogs for over 25 years, starting with gundogs then moving to the behavioural and obedience side of training companion dogs. He now has a successful practice covering Greater London, Surrey, and Middlesex.

Stan is recommended by numerous Vets, Rescue Centres, and Charities. He writes articles and comments on behavioural issues and techniques for dog magazines including Our Dogs, Dogs Monthly and K9 Magazine and Shooting Times.

He is also the founder member of PAACT The Professional Association of Applied Canine Trainers

SPAYING YOUR DOG

Neuter and Spaying Our Pets

There are many, many articles on spaying and neutering your pet but how many people are really absorbing the information or are they just saying hm and going on about their business?

The fact is our resources of animal welfare charities, socities whatever name you want to give these safety nets for pets and unwanted animals are picking up the tab for people who are just saying "hm" to these articles and moving on with their lives.

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The numbers tell what is really going on. There are thousands of unwanted animals finding their way into shelters each year. This is the direct result of puppies and kittens created by these animals who were never spayed or neutered. Their subsequent effect on the overpopulation of companion pets.

The awful truth is there are more animals seeking adoption than their are homes available.

The facts for June 1st, 2002 to May 31st 2005 one charity called LAWS spent 2,820.70 on spay/neuter adn that was the figures found for three years ago so you can assume the numbers have certainly increased in those 3 years. These figures alone should bring people to their knees.

These are more figures which will open people's eyes such as one female doge and her offspring can create 67,000 dogs in six years. One female cat and her offspring can produce 420,000 cats in seven years. Each year many animals are abandoned and hurt because of overpopulation. It is the responsibility of each person to spay and neuter their pet simply because it will increase the quality of that animals life, help the already overpopulation of animals but at least give the animals a fighting chance of finding a home and a life to be loved and appreciated in.

Life can be hard for any animal but not having the love and attention they deserve makes it worse. This is why so many people value their pets, getting them neutered/spayed, loving them to the end. They give them the quality of life while alive and their thoughts are at the time of their death they did the best for them. They neutered and spayed their pet increasing their life span-they did good by them. Most people feel this way and will give them a final resting place in a pet cremation memorial urn. The dogs and cats are the most cherished pet but also the most productive as the figures prove. They are also the most common pet most people have.

Spay and neuter your most valuable assets your pets and not just say "hm"

Neuter and Spaying Our Pets

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Neutering Or Spaying Your New Kitten

There are just too many cats that are either homeless or feral, and people are starting to notice that it is important to neuter their pet cats. Cats mature quickly and can reproduce several times every year, so two feral cats can soon produce twenty or more.

Most feral cats are often pet cats who were not neutered or spayed, and released by their owners when they couldn't take care of them any longer. Feral cats live in colonies, and they can spread diseases to any pet dogs and cats in their vicinity. Even if they are otherwise healthy, they may be flea-infested. When the females come into heat, the colony can disrupt the sleep of an entire neighborhood with their crying and fighting. Cats who are hungry enough will raid garbage cans. Feral kittens can destroy landscaping and soil your yard or outdoor furniture.

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Neutering or spaying your new kitten in the long run can obviously reduce the number of unwanted kittens that are produced, but it also can provide other benefits. A female cat in heat is very loud. Her crying is quickly drowned out by the fighting and yowling of any local tom cats in the vicinity. Toms that are not neutered tend to roam far away from home if they are allowed outdoors and may get injured or killed. Unaltered tomcats that are kept indoors or outdoors will tend to mark all objects in their territory with urine, which is extremely strong-smelling.

Cats who are unaltered may come down with some types of cancers more frequently than altered cats. These cancers affect the reproductive organs. They are extremely rare in cats that have been altered by the age of one year. Unaltered cats may also catch any of several contagious diseases of the reproductive tract.

Unlike some animals, neutering or spaying your new kitten can be done at a very young age. Some humane societies and rescue groups recommend altering kittens at the age of eight weeks. Many veterinarians, however, suggest you wait until five or six months of age in most cases. The exceptions may be feral kittens who are trapped and then taken to be altered before being re-released to their colonies. By the time they are five or six months old, they may already be pregnant.

However, that doesn't mean that you can't alter your adult cat, it is just better to do it as young as possible.

If you have both male and female kittens in your home, you may want to neuter the males at a younger age, and wait until the girls are around six months old. This is recommended in many cases because the procedure is more difficult for females than males.

Most cats rarely have any problems after neutering, but sometimes incisions can become infected. Be sure to check your cat daily to make sure the incision is healing well. Symptoms of infection are puffiness and redness around the incision site. If your cat is licking or chewing at the stitches, you may need to have the cat wear an Elizabethan collar. This will prevent them from being able to reach the stitches. Male cats can go about their business quickly after the surgery, while females should be kept indoors for up to five days afterwards as they may injure themselves.

As with any type of surgery, there are some risks. In very, very rare occasions, cats might be allergic or have a fatal reaction to the anesthesia. However, statistically, the risk is minimal.

Neutering or spaying your new kitten is really a rather simple procedure. With a little extra care during recovery, your pet will have a happy, healthy life without worrying about unwanted litters and reproductive health.

Neutering Or Spaying Your New Kitten

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The Importance of Spaying and Neutering Your Dog

Did you know that pet overpopulation in the United States results in nearly 4 to 6 million pets being euthanized each year? This is probably the best reason to have your pet spayed or neutered, but let's look at the other reasons too. Spaying and neutering your dog prior to six months of age may prevent or reduce the risk of a number of health issues that could occur later in their life. These health problems could either be very difficult or very expensive to treat, not to mention the stress your pet will face. For female dogs, spaying greatly reduces the possibility of contracting breast cancer, uterine cancer, or ovarian cancer. For male dogs, neutering eliminates the risk of testicular cancer and reduces the possibility of contracting prostate cancer.

As the dog's owner, you'll appreciate that your pet will be more affectionate and obedient after they are spayed or neutered. For female dogs, spaying removes her heat cycle, which will eliminate the incessant crying and nervous behavior female dogs will sometimes exhibit while they are in heat. She won't be so likely to attract unwanted male dogs anymore either. If a female is spayed at the right age, she will be less likely to end up getting pregnant. With an unplanned pregnancy, you'll have several puppies for which you'll have to pay medical expenses. They'll also each need a good home and that will be up to the pet owner once again.

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A male dog that is not neutered will do nearly anything to get to a female who is in heat. They'll dig up the yard or break through fences and leashes, causing property damage and possibly injuring themselves in the process. Male dogs are less likely to roam or run away from home, mark their territory or your stuff with urine, get into fights with other animals, or to bite.

Not only do pets and pet owners benefit from the spaying and neutering procedures, but the community as well. Many times, cities and towns will spend up to millions to control animals that are wandering or unwanted. Animal shelters are completely overwhelmed with the number of pets who are found or dropped off daily. Homeless or stray pets can get into trash containers and make a mess or do their business on private lawns or in public areas. When stray dogs breed, sometimes it can contribute to the problem of dog bites and attacks. Some pets who wander the neighborhood will kill or frighten birds and other wildlife.

The Importance of Spaying and Neutering Your Dog

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The Importance of Spaying and Neutering

So, you've got a healthy, happy bundle of furry love. What now? Maybe you've named it, gotten all its shots, toys and an impressive feeder bowl for those times when you aren't around for extended periods. But, after the first few weeks, have you considered the most important thing - your pet's future? Certainly, healthy food sans all the bad stuff that goes into commercial pet foods is part of the equation, but what about spaying and neutering? It's one of the most important, if not 'the' most important thing you can do for you pet - cat and dog alike.

Shelters throughout the country runneth over with animals who otherwise are as sweet, loving and deserving of a good home as your own pet. In many cases, this is because irresponsible owners allowed their animal to breed and couldn't cope with the resulting offspring. With travesties like that, there really is no reason not to spay or neuter your animal.

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Arguments exist against it - these are often very personal, and do not take the animal's own well being into account. Some wish for a 'carbon copy' of the parents. Like humans, the offspring of your pet(s) very likely will not exhibit the same mannerisms and personality as their parents, even if they look similar. Others think that the procedure is too expensive, and thus not worth it. This just isn't so. Numerous inexpensive options for spay/neuter services can be had for a song. Very affordable clinics (charging 0 or less) can be found in many locations. In addition, many vet clinics offer discounts through voucher programs. With low-cost alternatives becoming more available all the time, cost shouldn't be a factor. Sometimes, owners in their desire for their children to find out about birth, think that their dogs or cats having babies is a great idea. The novelty of this so-called miracle wears off but quick, overshadowed by the staggering numbers of animals who are euthanized annually. You, your kids (and your pet) would be better served by teaching the children about the importance of life by the simple expedient of getting your pet fixed.

Still others mistakenly feel that getting their animal fixed will somehow alter their personality or, in the case of dogs, make them less protective. Animals have no sense of sexual identity, and do not suffer for its removal (emotionally or otherwise). Secondly, protective qualities are formed via genetics and the animal's environment - ergo, getting them fixed doesn't alter these traits. One of the strangest excuses is the one that claims sterilizing your pet makes them fat. No! Lack of exercise and overfeeding is what will cause that svelte, handsome critter to put on the pounds. And 'that' opens up even more health issues than not getting them fixed alone can do.

Unaltered animals can be more aggressive, less focused on their humans during mating season, and prone to causing problems around the house - from urinating all over the place, to displaying hitherto unseen behavior - driven by hormones. Getting animals of both sexes fixed will also tend to keep them from wandering needlessly. This has the added benefit of keeping them away from dangers such as traffic or fights with neighborhood animals. In addition, getting them fixed will negate risks of uterine/ovarian cancer in females, or testicular cancer in males.

So you see, there are many reasons to get your pet fixed and precious few to advocate not doing it at all. Consider the well being of your animal. Would you like them to live a happy, healthy, carefree existence? Would you like to minimize the risks for getting sick the older they become? Then take them to get spayed/neutered at the earliest possible time. Complications from the procedure are minimal at best and there's nothing but good to be gained - for you, your pet and the community.

The Importance of Spaying and Neutering

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The Importance of Spaying Or Neutering Dogs

We've all seen the ads on television advising and admonishing us to have our pets spayed or neutered, but a lot of Americans don't understand the very serious value of subjecting our pets to such a surgery. Some people feel that it's cruel or inhumane, while others simply don't want to go to the expense. Others are worried that it will change their pet's behavior for the worse, making them lazy or indifferent. This is actually quite far from the truth.

Neutering is the act of removing the reproductive organs in males, while spaying is removing the ovaries and uterus of a female. While many owners view it as some sort of cruelty, it actually can control bad habits and reduce overpopulation. If you have a dog, you should seriously consider the benefits posed by neutering or spaying.

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Neutering your male dog can help:

Decrease in the possibility that the dog will run away in search of females in heat Help reduce the aggressiveness caused by testosterone and will make the dog more docile and affectionate Curb the dog's aggressive territory-marking habits, like urinating on things to mark them Calm the dog and make him easier to train Reduce the dog's tendency of attempting to copulate with legs, etc, as a show of dominance Make a dog less aggressive towards other male dogs Reduce the risk and incidence of prostate-related health issues Increase the likelihood of your dog living a long, healthy, and happy life

Spaying your female dog can have the following benefits:

Prevent the dog from going through heat, which can cause violence between your dog and other dogs Because your dog doesn't go through heat, she won't make spots on the furniture or bleed on the carpet Spaying your dog early prevents uterine and ovarian cancer (since those organs are removed), and greatly reduces he risk of developing breast cancer Spaying prevents pyometra, an infection of the uterus that can be very painful and life-threatening

At the end of the day, spaying and neutering saves you money, increases the lifespan of your pet, and makes him or her more affectionate and less likely to run away. It's simply irresponsible not to spay and neuter your dogs.

The Importance of Spaying Or Neutering Dogs

For more information about dogs and other pet health issues, visit houstonveterinarianclinics.com

Joseph Devine

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The Benefits of Spaying Or Neutering Your Pet

Pet owners everywhere are faced with an important decision when they acquire or adopt a new, young pet: "Should we have Fluffy fixed?" This is a very important decision as it has potential repercussions on a number of different fronts.

The first reason to alter a pet is to prevent the birth of unwanted litters. The American Humane Society views this as the most important reason to alter a pet. They have animal shelters across the country that house animals that have no homes due to over population. One of the reasons the shelters are overpopulated is that too many animals are left to reproduce freely.

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Another reason to alter a pet is that the pet will be happier and more content with its world. Unaltered pets have a tendency to be anxious or frustrated. The pet may pace, whine, act aggressively, or act inappropriately with furniture or people. The pet is unable to achieve happiness inside the house or outside and is driven in this unhappiness by something he or she cannot understand. Altering a pet will put an end to this behavior because the drive is gone.

As pet lovers everywhere will attest, pets always die too early. They are never around long enough. Altering a pet has the potential to increase the animal's life span. This is because spaying a female pet will eliminate uterine infection and can reduce the risk of mammary cancer. Neutering a male pet will prevent testicular and prostate cancer. On top of these health benefits, the pet won't face as much danger from being in fights, being run over, or even exposed to disease while on the prowl searching for a mate.

Some people feel they cannot afford to have their pet altered. What they don't realize is that not altering the pet can lead to some very expensive consequences. The cost of spaying a pet is a drop in the bucket of what it costs to feed and to raise a litter of puppies or kittens. When all goes well, the cost of vet care for the mother and all of her babies is substantial. When everything does not go perfectly, it is even worse. Problems during delivery can lead to a C-section, lost puppies, and even the loss of the mother. An altered pet requires fewer vet bills, and, with the reduced food intake, is less expensive overall.

For more information on pets and their issues, please visit http://www.sanantonioveterinarianclinics.com.

The Benefits of Spaying Or Neutering Your Pet

Joseph Devine

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Spaying And Neutering Pets - Myths And Facts

With millions of unwanted animals losing their lives in shelters around the country each year, clearing up some common misconceptions about spaying and neutering that pet owners have is a very crucial part of humane education. Below are some of the common objections people raise when they are urged by animal rescue workers to alter their pets, and the facts provided to overcome these objections.

Myth: Spaying or neutering will make my pet fat and lazy. The truth is: Pets become overweight for the same reasons people do: overeating and not getting enough exercise. Don't overfeed your pet, and be sure that he/she gets plenty of play time and has lots of interesting toys to play with.

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Myth: My cat/dog should have one litter first. The truth is: There is no medical evidence to support the theory that having a litter before spaying is good for a cat or dog. On the contrary, females spayed before their first heat cycle have a greatly reduced occurrence of breast cancer. If the reason you want your pet to have puppies or kittens is so that your children can witness "the miracle of birth" then contact your local no-kill rescue organization and foster a pregnant cat or dog. Many no-kill organizations take in pregnant animals, and are always desperately seeking foster homes for them. Usually the rescue organization will cover any veterinary expenses involved with the foster animal and her litter, and many will even provide food and litter for the animals in their foster system.

Myth: I can find good homes for the puppies and kittens. While you may believe that you will be able to get friends, relatives, and acquaintances to adopt the first litter, how many of the offspring will really have a good home for life? What about subsequent litters? Will the person taking the offspring take responsibility to get the animal vet care when needed, and alter the puppy or kitten...or will the animal produce litters of its own, thus adding to the growing tragedy of pet overpopulation? Kittens and puppies given away for free often end up in research labs or used in dog fighting rings as bait, so don't EVER advertise free puppies or kittens.

Myth: My pet is a purebred, so I don't want to alter him/her. The sad truth is, at least one fourth of the animals that enter our shelters each year are also purebred pets. They are often purchased from a puppy mill or high priced breeder and then become abandoned or given up when they become inconvenient. If you are looking for a purebred pet, most shelters actually have lists where potential owners can sign up and be notified when the breed they are looking for comes in. There are also many breed-specific rescue groups that exist to help unwanted purebreds. If you must have a purebred, save a life and adopt one from a shelter or breed-specific rescue organization.

Myth: I cannot afford to get my pet fixed. The truth is: How can you afford NOT to? Spaying or neutering is a one-time cost, which greatly benefits the animal, you, and your community. Many organizations offer low cost spay/neuter help. In fact, if you live in Florida you can visit http://www.spayneuterpets.com. This site is a directory of Florida low cost programs, organized by county. Even if you are not a Florida resident, there are national links provided on this site so that residents in other states can find assistance as well. Because your pet will be less likely to develop certain cancers later in life, and altered males are much less likely to fight (and become injured), in the long run you will most likely save on vet bills. Also, the financial costs incurred by county agencies to euthanize unwanted animals run high...and their expenses to euthanize these animals are passed on to us, the taxpayers.

Spaying And Neutering Pets - Myths And Facts

Joanna Sunderman is the publisher of SpayNeuterPets.com

To learn more about the benefits of spaying and neutering pets, humane help for feral cats, and how to find low cost spay and neuter help in Florida as well as in other areas, please visit http://www.spayneuterpets.com.

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The Facts On Spaying And Neutering Your Dog

Spaying or neutering your dog is an important consideration for any responsible dog owner. Not only does spaying or neutering your dog prevent unwanted pregnancy but it also can prevent conditions such as cancer and other reproductive diseases and conditions. Spayed females and neutered males are less likely to run away when other female dogs in the area are in heat and they are also less likely to engage in pack like behavior with other dogs.

Benefits of Spaying And Neutering Your Dog

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There are many different reasons to spay or neuter your dog. While there is the obvious pregnancy prevention with spaying or neutering there are also other, more practical and subtle benefits. The following are all characteristics of dogs that have been spayed or neutered.

· The dogs tend to be calmer and less aggressive towards both people and other pets.

· Females will get along much better with other females, either spayed or not.

· Males will be much less aggressive towards other males.

· Males will less likely run or engage in pack like behaviors even if there are other female dogs in the area.

· Males will be less likely to develop testicular cancers.

· Females will not develop ovarian cancer and will be less likely to develop breast cancer provided they are spayed prior to having their first litter.

Spayed and neutered dogs do not become less protective or less able as watchdogs. This common myth is what prevents many people from spaying or neutering their dogs. The reality is the protective instinct is not based on reproductive hormones; rather it is a hereditary trait that has been developed within the breed. It is also very dependent on the training that the individual dog as had as well as the personality of the dog.

What is spaying and neutering?

Spaying is the procedure used for female dogs. The procedure is surgical and requires the veterinarian to make a small incision in the lower abdominal area between the hind legs. The reproductive organs are completely removed from the body cavity. The incision is usually stitched up with dissolving stitches. Often the dog will have to wear a plastic cone or Elizabethan collar around their neck for a day or two to prevent them from licking or chewing at the incision. The dog should be kept calm and avoid any kind of jumping or strenuous exercise for the first week after the surgery.

Male dogs are neutered. This process also involves surgical procedures and general anesthesia. The testicles are completely removed with the procedure. There is no possibility of reversing either of the procedures. As with females the male dogs will need to be kept quiet and calm for several days after the surgery.

It is important to remember that male dogs, even after neutering, may still be able to impregnate females for a period of a few days or even weeks after the surgery. This occurs because viable sperm may still be in the male reproductive tract. Be sure to keep neutered males away from females for a couple of weeks after surgery just to be safe.

The Facts On Spaying And Neutering Your Dog

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Top Reasons And Benefits of Spaying or Neutering Your Pet

The decision to spay or neuter a pet does not come easy for some people, but there are several excellent reasons to consider the procedure. Spaying or neutering is an irreversible way to render a dog or cat unable to reproduce that can improve your pet's health, safety and quality of life. This procedure also helps control the population of unwanted companion and feral animals.

Spaying or neutering your pet can reduce his or her risk of certain types of cancers associated with reproduction. Neutered males have a lower incidence of prostate problems, including prostate enlargement and prostate cancers. Neutering also eliminates the risk of testicular cancer and testicular torsion, a painful and life-threatening condition. Spayed females have a much lower risk of developing mammary cancer (especially if spayed before the first heat cycle), and the procedure eliminates the risk of ovarian and uterine cancers. By minimizing or eliminating the risk of these cancers through spaying or neutering, you can help ensure your pet a longer, happier and healthier life. In fact, spayed or neutered pets live up to 3 years longer than their intact counterparts.

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Neutering also reduces aggressive behavior in some males, and reduces the tendency to roam or spray. Reducing or eliminating your pet's natural desire to roam helps protect him from accidental injuries from vehicles, and encounters with other animals. It also reduces the possibility that you will lose your pet temporarily or permanently.

Neutered male dogs may still mark their territories, but owners report that the procedure reduces or eliminates marking and/or spraying inside the house. Intact males, who can become very aggressive and persistent around intact females, are not attracted to spayed female pets. Neutered pets also display less dominating and anti-social behaviors around children, guests and other animals.

Spaying or neutering eliminates your pet's ability to reproduce, and helps to control both the unwanted companion and feral animal populations in your areas. Finding homes for unwanted companion animals is challenging, especially in a soft economy. In many cases, shelters that cannot secure homes for unwanted pets must destroy them. Feral animals - who have never been in a home - pose a danger to the communities in which they live. These unvaccinated animals may carry rabies, venereal, or other infectious diseases, breed (and fight) with intact house pets, and often cannot be rehabilitated, socialized or adopted. By spaying or neutering your pet, you can ensure that your pet does not contribute to the problem of pet overpopulation.

The benefits of spaying or neutering your pet are significant, and the procedure is appropriate for most house pets. By spaying or neutering your pet, you can extend your pet's life, improve his or her health and safety, and ensure that your dog or cat does not contribute to pet overpopulation.

Top Reasons And Benefits of Spaying or Neutering Your Pet

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Spaying Your Dog - The Essential Questions

For many female dog owners the decision of whether or not to spay your pet is one that is often delayed. This is regrettable, because through being hesitant it can often result in the optimum time for spaying being in the past.

What this article sets out to achieve is that once you have finished reading it, you will be able to reach a well-considered, and timely decision.

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The first question has to be: What is spaying?
It's a surgical procedure [ovariohysterectomy]. Following a general anaesthesia, a small incision is made in the lower abdominal area to effect the removal of the dog's ovaries and uterus.

What are the benefits of spaying my dog?
1. Obviously your not going to be troubled by any unwanted pregnancies. It can, and does happen, and without your even knowing. Males are very devious Romeo's, and your sweet little girl is by no means a shrinking violet once the time is right.
2. The heat cycle is over for good. Which means no more blood from the vulva on your floors and carpets.
3. It's also the end to any behavioral problems that are associated with the heat cycle. And that includes the urge to roam.
4. There are several major health advantages. Including the prevention of a pyometra developing: A serious, and sometimes fatal infection of the uterus.
5. Similarly, ovarian and uterine cancers are a greatly reduced threat--because of the removal of the reproductive organs.
6. And as your pet gets older there is a definite reduction in the risk of breast cancer.

What are the negative aspects of spaying my dog?
1. There are the risks involved in the surgery itself. The anaesthetic risk, and also the risk of infection.
2. And often the big stumbling block--The cost. In many areas there are organizations that will help--You need to be pro-active on this one, and leave no stone unturned.
3. The same as with the neutered male, there is the inevitable weight problem. Most vets will recommend that you reduce the spayed dog's food intake by around 20% on a daily basis. The real causes of canine obesity is exactly the same as it is in people: Overeating and a general lack of exercise.
4. There is an increased likelihood of urinary incontinence, as your pet gets older. It does happen, but it is very easily controlled.
5. There needs to be more emphasis on post-operative care than in the neutering of a male.

What about Post-Operative care?
Get your vet to provide you with an Elizabethan collar, or a similar plastic cone after the procedure. Several years ago, one of my dogs nipped her way through one of her stitches. She was close to opening up the entire wound--which would have had the inevitable outcome.

Also wait for at least 10 days after the operation before you exercise your dog off of the lead. I did on just one occasion with another dog, and for only a few minutes. This lead to complications, and she had to endure a further 2 weeks of on the lead exercise. These were mistakes that I made because I lacked any information about post-operative care.

The key question--When should I have my dog spayed?
A common myth is that a female should have a litter before being the spayed. This is unsubstantiated nonsense. The optimum time period is just before, or 12 weeks after her first season. By acting during this timeframe you will substantially reduce her chances of developing mammary cancer at a later stage in her life. Being a responsible pet owner it would be wise not to miss this short, but beneficial period to enhance her health prospects.

This short article should help you to reach a decision concerning the spaying of your dog. The eventual choice is yours. However, in the interests of your dog's health and well-being, if you do go ahead, please make sure that you act at the most favorable time.

Spaying Your Dog - The Essential Questions

Andy Matthews is a long time dog lover having bred, kept and shown a number of dogs for many years. He lives with his best pal Suki, a 5 year old Cocker Spaniel. Between them they have built from scratch Dog Names.

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Benefits of Spaying Female Dogs

Responsible pet owners choose to spay their female dogs for a variety of reasons, including the protection of a dog's overall health and to control pet overpopulation. While the miracle of birth is fascinating to many and most are particularly fond of new puppies, the fact is that pregnancy and birth can cause a variety of health issues in dogs. Also, cute puppies grow into adult dogs and without a proper home being available for these dogs, allowing female dogs to breed only increases the likelihood that her offspring will fall prey to unfortunate circumstances caused by pet overpopulation.

Health Issues

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Pregnancy and birth are not always the safest occurrences for some dogs. As a result of either, the risk to a female dog's health is increased as mammary gland infections and uterine infections may occur. While many believe that placing a dog on birth control pills or having them undergo a hysterectomy solves the problem of reproduction and is enough to ensure a dog's optimal health, this is simply not true. Often, birth control pills and hysterectomies (which do not remove the full reproductive tract) actually contribute to poor health in animals.

The following is a list of increased risk factors that may occur when spaying a dog is avoided in favor of other methods used against reproduction:

o Like most synthetic medications, birth control pills can cause unwanted side effects and cannot be used permanently. Thus, a dog can still become pregnant.
o A hysterectomy, also known as a tubal ligation, leaves a female dog's ovaries intact and allows the dog to still produce hormones that are produced in the ovaries, and to experience semi-annual heat cycles. While this appeals to many pet owners, many do not realize that allowing the presence of hormones and heat cycles increases the likelihood that a pet will try to escape the house or yard during mating season, which also increases the risk of them being hurt or lost.
o A hysterectomy also still allows a female to participate in regular mating habits. This, combined with the hormones she produces, more easily attracts male visitors to the owner's yard, which can be a danger to the family, other pets and increases the amount of pet waste in a yard.
o By allowing the dog only a hysterectomy and keeping hormone production in tact, owners also greatly increase the likelihood of the following in their pets:

1. Uterine infections
2. Mammary cancer
3. Tumors in the ovaries or uterus
4. Coat problems (Due to hormonal imbalances)
5. False pregnancies and other hormonal imbalances (Many of which are characterized by uterine swelling, engorged mammary glands and behavioral changes)

Spaying a female dog involves the complete removal of ovaries and the uterus, which prevents hormone reproduction, hormone imbalances, heat cycles and mating rituals, as well as unwanted pregnancies.

Overpopulation

Pet overpopulation is a real problem in communities all across the globe. Unwanted dogs are more likely to be abused or neglected, and finding homes for unwanted pets is a difficult task. Without suitable homes for these animals, many are euthanized, as an attempt to control unwanted pet populations. Responsible pet owners who understand the importance of these issues opt to spay their female dogs in order to prevent them from reproducing.

To safeguard against the many common health perils in female dogs that are allowed to reproduce or who are given limited forms of birth control and prevention, spaying a female dog is the best and safest option owners can bestow on their beloved pets.

Benefits of Spaying Female Dogs

This article was written by Kelly Marshall of Oh My Dog Supplies - the best place to find cute dog clothes

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Spaying Or Neutering Your Puppy

Are you about to bring home your dream puppy, a beautiful little boy or girl? Congratulations! There is little in life that can be compared to the unconditional love and devotion of a dog. But with that undying love comes lots of responsibilities, feeding, training and the question of spaying or neutering your little bundle of joy.

While the thought of putting your precious puppy through surgery may not be very appealing, it is an issue that should be addressed and the sooner the better. There are many reasons to sterilize your dog, very few drawbacks and a lot of myths that surround this common procedure. Each of these will be addressed in turn.

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Probably the most compelling reason to have your dog 'fixed' is the love that you have for your pet. An intact dog has a higher chance of getting injured due to fighting, being hit by cars from running away to look for a mate, a greater rate of cancer of the reproductive organs, a female (especially smaller breeds) have more of a chance of needing surgery during birth. Your sterilized dog will generally live longer and be a much more loving companion, they are happy just to lounge around with you and do not feel the need to reproduce. As an added bonus, you will be doing your part to control the pet population.

As with any surgery, there is the threat of complications up to and including death. While this is very rare, it does happen and is a valid concern when deciding whether to spay or neuter your puppy. If you have any concerns regarding your dogs' health and how surgery would affect it, please consult your veterinarian.

There are many myths that surround getting a dog sterilized, these are unfounded and untrue, however, they continue to exist. The biggest misconception is that a spayed or neutered dog will get fat. This is completely false. The only thing that will make a dog fat is too much food and too little exercise (there are also medical reasons for weight gain). If your pooch is becoming fat, cut down on table scraps, take him out for a little walk every day and see your vet.

The other widely believed myth is that dogs 'want' to be parents or that FeFe would make such a good mom. First, dogs become parents out of instinct, not by a well-thought out decision-making process. If there is a female in heat, a male will do anything possible to get to her. Second, I am sure that your cute little girl will make a good mother and will have beautiful puppies, most dogs do. However, this is again instinct, not a personal choice.

Please, before you pick up your new puppy, consider the benefits in having him or her spayed or neutered. Talk to the breeder when you pick up the puppy, to other dog owners and talk to your vet. Make an informed decision that is right for you and your new puppy.

Spaying Or Neutering Your Puppy

Jason Beachy loves dogs and they love him. Find out everything about the ones closest to his heart at his website.

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