S/N Assistance

MYTH: My dog is a purebred so it's OK if I breed.

The fact is that 25 per cent of all animals found in shelters are AKC or UKC purebreds. Every day 70,000 puppies and kittens are born in this country while only 10,000 people are born. It's simple math - there just aren't enough homes for all of these animals. Every animal you breed and find a home for, you are taking a home away from a shelter animal.

MYTH: My pet is a male. I won't have any litters.

These animals are a very big part of the pet overpopulation problem since they escape and breed with females in heat. Even if you are very careful to keep your male pet under control at all times, accidents do happen and he may escape. In fact, he will likely try repeatedly to escape, digging up your yard, scratching up your door, or chewing off his restraint in the process. Males roaming in search of a mate are susceptible to being injured by traffic and getting in fights with other males. Fighting male cats have a very high chance of catching Felv or FIV diseases, which are both eventually fatal.

MYTH: My children should see the miracle of birth.

School programming, books or films can convey the same information in a more caring way. Visiting the local zoo or science center are other options. Children can experience the birthing process other ways and enjoy it more. Almost all mothers hide when they give birth to their puppies or kittens. So, in most cases, they won't see it. Also, responsible pet guardians should take into cosideration the costs involved should an emergency arise during birth, care and feeding of the puppies, and vaccinations until (or if) a home can be found for them.

MYTH: She needs to have at least one litter.

Having a litter does not in any way improve or change a pet's disposition and can drain her body of nutrients, make her thin, increase chances of mammary and ovarian cancer, and weaken her teeth and bones.

MYTH: Spaying and neutering is painful for the pet.

Surgery is performed under anesthesia and animals are usually back on their feet and into normal activities within 24 to 72 hours. This slight discomfort is not harmful and is far outweighed by the benefits to both your animal and the pet overpopulation problem.

MYTH: If I neuter him, he won't be as protective.

Most pets will actually be more effective at protection since they will have stabilized hormones and they are usually easier to train. Altered animals are just as protective and loyal to their owners and often will have reduced desires to wander, mark territory and fight with other animals.

MYTH: They'll get fat and lazy.

Not so. They need exercise just like they always did, but spaying them actually changes nothing as far as weight gain.

MYTH: I paid good money for my dog or cat, so I need to get my money back.

Most people do not realize the cost and responsibility involved in having a litter. Reputable breeders know that unless you have a champion dog or cat to enhance the breed, you are not going to make any money.

MYTH: Spaying and neutering is expensive.

Although to some the cost of surgery may seem high initially, it's a real bargain when copared with the cost of raising a healthylitter of puppies or kittens until they are weaned.

While prices for spay/neuter surgery vary considerably, there are many programs (See Spay/Neuter Resources above) that will spay/neuter animals at a reduced fee for people who truly need them - those struggling to make ends meet on a low income. The bottom line is this: when you adopt an animal, you assume responsibility for that animal's well-being. Spaying or neutering is as vital to your pet's health and happiness as routine physical examinations, good nutrition, grooming, playtime, and love. Before you adopt an animal, you need to seriously consider whether or not you are ready to take on the financial responsibility of properly caring for one. If you have already adopted an unaltered animal, it is your responsibility to have the animal spayed or neutered regardless of cost.

When should I spay or neuter my pet?

As early as possible! Although animals have traditionally been altered at six months, many veterinarians are now practicing pediatric (also known as "early-age" or "juvenile") spay/neuter surgery, which can be performed on animals as young as eight weeks. Doctors practicing this technique report that the surgery is significantly easier and quicker to perform; guardians who have had pediatric spay/neuter performed on their animals report fewer medical problems than those who have older animals altered; and spaying or neutering homeless animals before adopting them out is the best way to prevent unwanted births.

Reasons to spay and neuter early: