Importance Of Spaying and Neutering Your Pets
If you are considering adopting a cat or dog, spaying or neutering your pet is one of the most important health decisions you can make.
In spaying, the female pet’s ovaries and uterus are removed so that she cannot become pregnant. Neutering involves removing the male animal’s testicles so that your dog or cat will not reproduce. While both are routine procedures, some owners may feel hesitant about them. The health and behavioural advantages of spaying and neutering, however, are considerable. In addition, you will also help prevent pet homelessness.
Spaying or neutering your cat or dog is vital to their long-term health. Not only does it reduce overpopulation and save countless lives, but it also offers a host of other benefits for your pet.
Not convinced yet? Read on to learn how you, your pet, and even the entire community can benefit from this procedure.
Spaying and neutering helps manage pet behaviour
Did you know that taking your pets to a spay and neuter clinic can greatly improve their behaviour? Pets who have undergone this procedure are also more likely to behave properly. Previously troubling behaviors, such as urinating in the house or showing aggressive behavior to people or other pets, can become significantly better or disappear entirely.
Female pets will live longer, healthier lives
Having your female dog spayed can prevent her from developing serious health issues, including uterine infections and breast cancer. In dogs, about 50% of breast cancer cases result in death. Spaying your dog before her first heat is the best way for you to protect her from this serious disease.
Neutering will also benefit your male pet
There are health benefits for your male dog, too. Getting your dog neutered will help prevent testicular cancer and prostate infections. The sooner you complete the procedure, the better the chances of preventing these health issues. Consult with your veterinarian for the appropriate age to neuter your pet.
Spayed females won’t go into heat
During the breeding season, female cats usually experience heat cycles four to five days every three weeks. Female dogs tend to go into heat every six months. The cycle can last for around three weeks, and that could result in attracting male dogs to your home.
Male dogs won’t want to wander away from home
When unneutered, dogs will do almost anything to find a mate, including digging under fences and escaping from their homes. After going free, he may run the risk of becoming injured in traffic or getting into fights with other dogs.
Homeless dogs and cats are less likely to be euthanized
Every year, millions of homeless animals are euthanized. Spaying and neutering have decreased the number, but it remains far too high. By bringing your cat or dog to a spay and neuter clinic, you can avoid adding to the homeless pet population problem.
The procedure is safe and common
This routine procedure is safe, with numerous benefits that far outweigh the minimal risks involved. When your pet needs to be spayed or neutered, anesthesia is used. You can trust that your dog or cat will be well taken care of and closely monitored by professionals during the entire procedure.
You will save money
Although a spay and neuter clinic comes with its own costs, ultimately you will save money on veterinary bills. Think about what would happen if your pet became pregnant. Fees for veterinarian visits and caring for the young can be quite expensive. Having fewer illnesses means fewer vet bills and fewer trips to the clinic. Your pet will also appreciate it, as no animal enjoys going to the vet.
It is a win-win for the entire community
Getting your cat or dog spayed or neutered will reduce the number of pets on the streets and the number of animals that need to be euthanized. Stray animals present a greater risk. They can cause property damage, car accidents, and may even scare or bite people. These kinds of problems can negatively impact entire communities’ perceptions of dogs, even when just a few strays are to blame.
If you haven’t had your pet spayed or neutered yet, what are you waiting for?
For healthier and happier pets, reach out to the spay and neuter specialists at Langley Animal Clinic.
