subject: Clarifying Falsehoods About Having Your Pooch Spayed Or Neutered [print this page] Animals shelters are struggling under the weight of overcapacity. According to the Humane Society, up to 8 million dogs and cats are brought to shelters each year. Half of them are euthanized because a home cannot be found for them. This is one of the most compelling reasons to have your pooch spayed or neutered. Doing so can save the lives of unborn litters.
There are several misconceptions that pet owners have about spaying and neutering. These fallacies discourage them from having the procedure performed on their canines. Below, we'll sweep away the most common myths and provide much-needed clarity about a largely misunderstood operation.
"Spaying And Neutering Cause Weight Gain"
While a slight amount of postoperative weight gain is normal, it should not be a concern. In most cases, the foods and meals provided by owners, and a lack of daily exercise, are far more likely to contribute to canine obesity. As long as you feed your dog the right foods and provide an outlet for daily activity, he'll keep the pounds off.
"Spaying And Neutering Reduces Protective Traits"
Some owners believe that having their canine spayed or neutered reduces his (or her) protective tendencies at home. They fear that the procedure will make their pooch less inclined to warn away intruders. In reality, while most dogs become less aggressive after the operation, the effect does not impact their willingness to guard their owner's home. Protecting their home, owner, and family is instinctive and has little to do with hormones.
"Spaying And Neutering Are Too Expensive"
Price is subjective, of course. That said, having your pooch spayed or neutered usually costs less than $100, and can be done at clinics in nearly every city. Moreover, many veterinarians will accept pets on a limited-income basis. If the owner is unable to pay for the procedure, the veterinarian will often be happy to reduce his or her normal rate. They do this because they realize the operation plays an important role in solving problems related to pet overpopulation.
"My Canine Will Feel Lose His Sexual Identify"
Male dogs do not perceive their identity in the context of their sexual organs. Instead, they do so by instinct. This is the reason over 30% of male canines who have been neutered continue to engage in humping. It is a part of their basic nature.
"It Will Be Easy To Place The Litter"
Many owners are under the impression that they will be able to find homes for their female dog's litter. This is rarely as easy as it seems. In many cases, the people who adopt one of the littermates end up giving it away or abandoning it to a shelter. That puts the puppies at risk of being euthanized. Remember, you cannot control the decisions made by other people.
It is important to spay or neuter your dog if you do not intend to breed him - or in the case of a female, to produce a litter. The procedure is inexpensive and will prevent your canine from adding to the pet overpopulation problem. Plus, spayed and neutered pets tend to live healthier and happier lives than their "intact" counterparts.
Clarifying Falsehoods About Having Your Pooch Spayed Or Neutered
