Answering Questions about Spaying and Neutering

Posted on October 21, 2008 by Lynne Hudlow

If you are one of the many Pet owners questioning what it means to spay, neuter or ‘fix’ your Pet, you are not alone. The Humane Society provides some helpful information about Pet spaying and neutering to dispel many myths that exist. We figured we’d help shed some light on the subject.

A Spay (ovariohysterectomy) is a surgery for female Pets and neuter (castration) refers to the surgery for male Pets. This type of surgery prevents Pets from reproducing offspring. In addition, Pets who have been spayed or neutered will no longer exhibit the behavior characteristics of fertile Pets, which can be difficult to control or live with. Since there are many Pets in shelters across the country, population control is critical in preventing more unwanted and homeless animals from being produced.

Pets that have been spayed or neutered tend to roam less, since hormonal instincts are not directing them to look for a mate. A Pet that is content to stay home instead of roaming is less likely to get into fights, that result in injuries and infections that are not healthy for the Pet or can be extensive and costly to treat.

Reproductive health issues occur in Pets, similar to those you hear about in people. Unneutered male dogs are at greater risk for developing an enlarged prostrate and there can be health issues associated with that condition.

Female Pets can develop tumors in breast tissue, which is more common in Pets that have gone through multiple cycles verses a Pet that was spayed, especially by 6 months of age. The female reproductive system in unsprayed females Pets is at risk of disease, including pyometra, a severe, potentially life-threatening infection that results in the uterus becoming filled with pus. Pyometra cannot develop in a spayed female if her uterus has already been removed.

- Avoiding health complications is a good reason to spay or neuter your Pet.
- Keeping your Pet happy in your family and home, instead of roaming and mating is another reason.
- No pregnancies, means you are not displacing other homeless or unwanted Pets in shelters, now or in the future.

For additional information on spaying or neutering your Pet or for any other health-related question contact or visit your Pet’s doctor. Helping Pets stay healthy and happy is what we want for our families.



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