Save A Life: The Benefits of Spay and Neuter
Choosing to spay or neuter your pets can help them live happier and healthier lives in addition to saving the lives of homeless pets across the nation. Read below to learn more about the truth behind spay and neuter services and why they are so important for keeping your pet healthy, and saving the lives of animals in need.
What does spay and neuter really mean?
Spaying is the medical term for the removal of a female animals uterus and ovaries so that they are no longer able to get pregnant. Neutering is the castration of a male animal via the removal of his testicles. These procedures are only performed by veterinarians and done under anesthesia so that the animals do not feel any pain. The recovery time for these procedures is typically 10-14 days.
Why do I need to spay or neuter my pet?
There are so many reasons why it is crucial to spay or neuter our pet! In 2023, more than 1000 dogs and cats were euthanized every day in United States shelters simply because there was not enough space for all of them. If we can continue to spay or neuter more pets, less animals will enter shelters and more animals will be likely to have a safe place to land until they find their forever home. By choosing to spay or neuter, you are directly preventing the creation of hundreds of offspring- many of which could end up without a home.
Benefits of Spay / Neuter
For female pets:
Greatly reduced risk of breast cancer
No risk of accidental pregnancy
Complete removal of the risk of uterine infections, ovarian cancer, and uterine cancer
Decreased risk of unwanted attention from male pets due to the female pet no longer going into “heat” or estrous
For male pets:
Reduced risk of testicular cancer
Decreased likelihood to spray or mark in the home
No risk of impregnating female pets
Less likely to run away from home (Many male dogs run away from their homes in search of a mate)
Less likely to exhibit aggressive behavior or bite
Common Myths about Spay / Neuter:
According to Best Friends Animal Society, below are the most common myths about spaying and neutering followed by the truth behind these misconceptions.
Myth: Female pets should have one litter before being spayed.
Fact: Spaying female dogs before their first heat cycle elimates their risk of ovarian or uterine cancer and reduces the risk of mammary cancer.
Myth: Spaying or neutering causes pets to become overweight and/or lazy.
Fact: Spaying or neutering pets removes sex hormones, which in turn can decrease metabolism. However, pets generally become overweight due to lack of an appropriate diet and sufficient exercise, not from being spayed or neutered. As your animals age, it is important to adjust their diet and exercise regimen accordingly, so they remain healthy later in life.
Spaying or neutering pets removes sex hormones, which in turn can decrease metabolism. However, pets generally become overweight due to lack of an appropriate diet and sufficient exercise, not from being spayed or neutered. As your animals age, it is important to adjust their diet and exercise regimen accordingly, so they remain healthy later in life.
How can I get my pet spayed or neutered?
If you feel ready to begin the conversation about spaying or neutering your pet, talk to your veterinarian or visit your local VCA. If you are unable to afford this procedure, please fill out the form on our “Get Support” tab in order to learn of low-cost options in your area.
