Did you know that recent data indicates that approximately 6.5 million companion animals enter U.S. animal shelters every year? And did you know that of those animals, 670,000 dogs and 860,000 cats are euthanized annually (mostly due to lack of shelter space)? These numbers are heartbreaking. What can we do to see those numbers go down? Spaying and neutering is an easy and proven way to reduce pet overpopulation. Spaying and neutering dogs and cats offers a plethora of benefits to your pet and the community, too! According to the ASPCA:

Medical benefits:

• Your female pet will live a longer, healthier life. Spaying helps prevent uterine infections and breast tumors, which are malignant or cancerous in about 50 percent of dogs and 90 percent of cats. Spaying your pet before her first heat offers the best protection from these diseases.

• Neutering your male companion prevents testicular cancer and some prostate problems.

Behavioral benefits:

• Your spayed female pet won't go into heat. While cycles can vary, female felines usually go into heat four to five days every three weeks during breeding season. In an effort to advertise for mates, they'll yowl and urinate more frequently—sometimes all over the house!

• Your male dog will be less likely to roam away from home. An intact male will do just about anything to find a mate, including finding creative ways escape from the house. Once he's free to roam, he risks injury in traffic and fights with other male animals.

• Your neutered male may be better behaved. Unneutered dogs and cats are more likely to mark their territory by spraying strong-smelling urine all over the house. Your dog might be less likely to mount other dogs, people and inanimate objects after he’s neutered. Some aggression problems may be avoided by early neutering.

​Many people think that spaying and neutering is too costly. It doesn't have to be! Our area is fortunate to have a number of low-cost options when it comes to getting you pet spayed or neutered. Check out the list of local low cost spay and neuter clinics...and then make an appointment to get your pet spayed or neutered. It makes a huge difference!