Your pet will be ready to be spayed or neutered between 5 and 6 months of age. There are many benefits to spaying/neutering. The first is that you can ensure that your pet will not be contributing to the pet overpopulation. According to the ASPCA, there are between 5-7 million dogs and cats entering humane and rescue shelters each year. Up to half of them are euthanized.
Other benefits include:
- Reduced roaming behavior
- Reduced territorial marking
- Reduced aggression
- Eliminates the risk of testicular cancer
- Eliminates the risk if pyometra
- Significantly reduces the risk of mammary tumors if done before the age of 2 years.
- Eliminates the risk for uterine and ovarian cancer
- Reduces the risk for cervical cancer.
Biggest benefit: inability to breed
Myth: It is better to have at least one litter before spaying your female dog
Fact: Medical evidence shows that female dogs spayed before their first heat cycle are healthier than those that are not.
Myth: “I want my dog to be protective”
Fact: It is in the natural instincts and genetic make-up of dogs to protect their family. It is not in their sex hormones.
Myth: They will get fat and lazy
Fact: The culprit for a pet getting fat and lazy is being fed too much and not get enough exercise.
Myth: Too expensive
Fact: Spay/neuter cost is relatively low compared to the cost of caring for multiple puppies and kittens for 8 weeks.