Did You Get Your Pet Spayed This Month?
Spay Day is The Humane Society of the United States’ and Humane Society International annual event to inspire people to save animals’ lives by spaying or neutering pets and feral cats. Spay Day officially takes place on the last Tuesday of February – but events will be running all through the month! The 15th annual Spay Day will be Feb. 24, 2009.
Reason why to spay your pet….
1-Help your community … and yourself
Homeless animals may get into trash containers, defecate in the neighborhood and bite or attack. Spaying or neutering your pet means that your animal and its potential offspring won’t contribute to the population of unwanted pets.
You can also enjoy your spayed or neutered pet more. Female pets that have been spayed do not go into heat. You won’t have the mess that comes with the female reproductive cycle or the boisterous, noisy male suitors. Spaying and neutering may also reduce the risk of certain health problems, offering you more years with your beloved dog or cat.
2-Safe and effective
Licensed veterinarians perform the spay or neuter operation while the pet is under anesthesia. Depending on your pet’s age, size and health, he or she will stay at your veterinarian’s office for a few hours or a few days. Depending upon the procedure, your pet may need stitches removed. Your veterinarian can fully explain spay and neuter procedures to you. If you have a new puppy or kitten, don’t wait! Pets can become parents sooner than you think. Early age spay/neuter is safe and effective, so talk with your veterinarian at your pet’s first visit.
3-Financial assistance may be available
Spay or neuter surgery carries a one-time cost that is relatively small when you consider the benefits. It’s a small price to pay to make sure your pet’s offspring aren’t euthanized. For pets living in homes with limited income, reduced cost procedures may be available. Humane societies work with veterinarians to offer subsidized and affordable spay and neuter services in veterinarians offices, in specialized clinics and even in customized mobile units that bring safe, effective spaying and neutering into specific neighborhoods.
4-It’s not just for dogs and cats!
When being conscientious about the pet overpopulation, don’t forget to spay or neuter your pet rabbit. Rabbits reproduce faster than dogs or cats and often end up in shelters where they must be euthanized. Spaying or neutering rabbits can reduce hormone-driven behavior such as lunging, mounting, spraying and boxing. Spaying females can prevent ovarian, mammary and uterine cancers, which can be prevalent in mature females.
Millions of pet deaths each year are a tragedy—but it can be solved. By spaying and neutering your pet, you can be an important part of the solution. Contact your veterinarian today and be sure to let your family and friends know that they should do the same.
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