MYTHS AND FACTS REGARDING SPAY/NEUTER
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MYTH:
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My pet will get fat and lazy.
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FACT:
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Spaying or neutering does not make pets fat or lazy. The truth is that pets get fat and lazy because they are fed too much and do not get enough exercise.
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MYTH:
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It is better to have one litter first
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FACT:
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Females spayed before their first heat cycle are typically healthier. Every time a female pet goes through a heat cycle she is at an increased risk for breast cancer and uterine
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MYTH:
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When my pet has a litter I will find good homes for all of them.
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FACT:
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You may find homes for all your pet’s puppies or kittens but there are already puppies and kittens being euthanized in the shelters every week. Further, you have no way to guarantee that those animals will not have babies of their own when they are older. Allowing your pet to breed only contributes to the problem. Be part of the solution and call the clinic today!
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MYTH:
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My male pet will feel like less of a male.
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FACT:
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Pets do not have any concept of masculinity. Neutering your male pet will not cause him to suffer any kind of emotional identity crisis, nor will it change his basic personality. Your pet will be healthier and a better companion.
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MYTH:
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My pet is purebred; they don’t end up in animal shelters.
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FACT:
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One in four animals that enter shelters are purebred. Regardless of whether or not they are purebred, 50% of animals that enter into shelters are euthanized due to overpopulation.
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MYTH:
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My pet is just so special and I want the puppies/kittens to be just like them.
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FACT:
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Genetics are not an exact science and even professional breeders cannot guarantee how a litter will develop. The overpopulation problem will continue to grow on the slim chance you might get another animal that is just like the parent.
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MYTH:
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It’s good for my children to witness the miracle of birth.
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FACT:
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Even if children are able to see a pet give birth, the lesson they will really learn is that animals can be created and discarded as it suits adults. Instead, it should be explained to children that the real miracle is life, and that preventing the birth of some pets can save the lives of others.
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MYTH:
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My dog will no longer be a protective watch dog.
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FACT:
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Spaying or neutering does not affect a dog’s natural instinct to protect its home and family. A dog’s temperament is formed more by genetics and environment than by sex hormones.
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MYTH:
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It is unhealthy or unethical to spay or neuter when my pet is young.
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FACT:
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Spaying and neutering is safe for young animals. There is no veterinary research that suggests spaying or neutering pets before six months of age interferes with healthy development. The Northwest Spay & Neuter Center accepts healthy patients for surgery as young as two months old, as long as they weigh at least two pounds.
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