Spay/Neuter F.A.Q.

Pet overpopulation remains a tragic problem in our country. Just one female dog or cat, in its lifetime, has the capability of producing tens of thousand of other animals as each generation also reproduces. Each year, an estimated eight to ten million animals are taken in by animal shelters, and 4 to 5 million cats and dogs have to be killed because there are simply not enough homes for them.

The good news is that the problem of pet overpopulation is being solved. In the 1970’s, shelters across the U.S. were putting down about 17 million cats and dogs yearly. With spay/neuter programs, better adoption marketing, and pet owner education, we are already 75% of the way to our goal of no more homeless pets. Now is a great time to join the effort…the end is in sight…with your help we can succeed!

•	Spaying and neutering helps dogs and cats live longer, healthier lives.
•	Spaying and neutering can eliminate or reduce the incidence of a number of health problems that can be very difficult or expensive to treat.
•	Spaying eliminates the possibility of uterine or ovarian cancer and greatly reduces the incidence of breast cancer, particularly when your pet is spayed before her first estrous cycle.
•	Neutering eliminates testicular cancer and decreases the incidence of prostate disease.

•	Spaying and neutering makes pets better, more affectionate companions.
•	Neutering cats makes them less likely to spray and mark territory.
•	Spaying a dog or cat eliminates her heat cycle. Estrus lasts an average of six to 12 days, often twice a year, in dogs and an average of six to seven days, three or more times a year, in cats. Females in heat can cry incessantly, show nervous behavior, and attract unwanted male animals.
•	Unsterilized animals often exhibit more behavior and temperament problems than do those who have been spayed or neutered.
•	Spaying and neutering can make pets less likely to bite.
•	Neutering makes pets less likely to roam the neighborhood, run away, or get into fights.

The truth is that most pets get fat and lazy because their owners feed them too much and don't give them enough exercise. Although some pets have a slightly increased tendency to gain weight, this can be easily managed by adjusting their food and exercise. Your veterinarian can advise you of the right diet if your pet is gaining too much weight.

Medical evidence indicates just the opposite. In fact, the evidence shows that females spayed before their first heat are typically healthier. Many veterinarians now sterilize dogs and cats as young as eight weeks of age. Check with your veterinarian about the appropriate time for these procedures.

Spaying or neutering does not affect a dog's natural instinct to protect home and family. A dog's personality is formed more by genetics and environment than by sex hormones.