When adopting a pet from a shelter, it is typically required that the animal be spayed (female) or neutered (male). However, if you are purchasing a new pet from a breeder or acquiring your companion animal from another source, the decision is left entirely to you and your family. Sometimes, this can be a difficult decision to make because you may have considered breeding your pet or you may feel the process is inhumane. However, the long term benefits of choosing to spay and neuter your pet make the procedure highly recommended.
Spaying
For females, spaying is an excellent way to maintain control over your pet. Without being spayed, your female dog or cat will have a greater tendency and desire to roam, meaning you have to carefully watch to avoid her escape. You’ll also be negating any heat cycles, which can be messy, as well as attract unwanted attention from males of the species. For female animals, sterilization also cuts the risk of mammary gland tumors, as well as ovarian and uterine cancer, especially if the procedure is completed before her first heat cycle.
Neutering
Male dogs and cats have a tendency to ‘spray’ or mark their territory, which is drastically reduced through sterilization. It also aids in calming aggressive behavior in male pets, which can mean less chance of biting and an overall more companionable personality. Neutering also eliminates the possibility of testicular cancer, as well as decreases the risk of prostate disease.
Other Benefits
You should also consider the other positive elements of spaying and neutering. By sterilizing your pet, you are actually offering it the opportunity to live a much longer, healthier life, with much less risk of disease. In addition, you are helping to reduce overpopulation of unwanted companion animals. A sterile pet will not contribute to roaming, homeless pets, meaning there will be fewer animals in shelters and less need for the destruction of companion animals.
While not all pet owners will want to sterilize their pets, and this is entirely understandable, there are a number of reasons to pursue this responsible action. It will lead to a long, happy, healthy relationship between the two of you. Consider calling our local veterinarian office today for a consultation or to schedule an appointment to have your pet spayed or neutered.