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Spaying and Neutering

Spaying or neutering your pets is a vital act of responsibility for any pet owner. By helping to control the pet population, we can reduce the high number of animals in shelters or those living as strays. Many communities grapple with the issue of overpopulation of pets, particularly dogs and cats. This tragic situation leads to the euthanasia of millions of healthy, adoptable animals each year, simply because there aren't enough homes or resources available to care for them. Moreover, many stray animals live difficult lives on the streets, often succumbing to starvation, exposure, disease, or injuries. By spaying or neutering our pets, we can directly contribute to alleviating this distressing issue.


The benefits of spaying or neutering go beyond population control; they also significantly impact the health and behavior of our pets. Spaying (in females) helps prevent uterine infections and breast tumors, which are malignant or cancerous in about half of dogs and 90% of cats. Neutering (in males) prevents testicular cancer and certain prostate problems, enhancing their longevity. Additionally, spaying or neutering can mitigate several behavioral issues. Unneutered dogs and cats may exhibit a strong desire to roam, often leading to fights with other animals or dangerous encounters with traffic. Aggressive behaviors, marking territory, and the stress of heat cycles can also be mitigated or eliminated. Therefore, spaying and neutering not only serve the broader community but also directly improve the life of our pets.

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Frequently Asked Questions

  • At what age should I spay or neuter my pet?

    The appropriate age for spaying or neutering can vary depending on the species, breed, and individual health of the pet. Traditionally, most vets recommend having the procedure done around six months of age for dogs and cats. However, many shelters and rescue organizations perform pediatric spay/neuter surgeries as early as 8-16 weeks of age to ensure that pets are fixed before they are adopted out. Always consult with your veterinarian to determine the most suitable time to spay or neuter your pet.

  • Are there any risks involved in spaying or neutering a pet?

    Like any surgical procedure, spaying or neutering does carry some risks, such as an adverse reaction to anesthesia or post-operative complications. However, these risks are relatively low, especially when the procedure is performed by a qualified veterinarian. Most pets recover quickly and experience no long-term health issues related to the procedure. In fact, spaying or neutering often leads to improved long-term health, reducing the risk of certain cancers and other health problems.

  • Will spaying or neutering cause my pet to gain weight or alter their personality?

    Spaying or neutering can lead to metabolic changes in your pet, which, if not balanced with appropriate diet and exercise, can result in weight gain. Regular physical activity and a balanced diet should maintain your pet's healthy weight post-operation. As for personality, while the procedure can reduce certain behaviors associated with mating, such as aggression or the urge to roam, it does not change a pet's core personality or their ability to play, learn, or bond with humans.

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