Everyone loves puppies and kittens. They’re adorable and tiny, and you get to watch them grow into their own personality and behavior. A lot of people think it would be wonderful to let their pets have a litter or two of their own. Looking at the statistics, though, it would be better in the long run to fix your pets at an early age before they can ever have the chance to become pregnant (unless you are a breeder). According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), approximately 6.5 million companion animals are surrendered to U.S. shelters nationwide every year and only 3.2 million of those pets are adopted every year. About 1.5 million of those pets are euthanized because of the sheer number of unwilling adopters. Your decision to spay and neuter your pet(s) would greatly contribute to the decrease in unwanted animals in our country. The benefits of fixing your furry friends are also not something to ignore. Spaying your cat or dog takes the mess of a heat cycle out. It eliminates the crying, pacing, mood changes, and nervousness associated with heat cycles. Neutering your cat or dog can prevent unwanted behaviors such as aggression, marking, humping, and the urge to roam and stray from home. If there are multiple pets in your household, fixing your pets will usually help them co-exist easier with less fights. Behavioral benefits aren’t the only ones to consider, either. Spaying females before their first heat cycle nearly eliminates the risk of breast cancer, prevents uterine infections, and prevents uterine cancer. Neutering males prevents testicular cancer and prevents the enlargement of the prostate gland, as well as reducing the risk of perianal tumors.

If you have a new pet coming into the household, or an older pet, and wish to check on spaying/neutering them, give us a call or stop in. We are always willing to help answers questions and give advice on the best course of action for the well-being of your pets! Schedule an appointment today!