Pros And Cons Of Spaying And Neutering

Every year, approximately three million pets in the United States are euthanized because no one wants to give them a home, or because they are homeless and shelters have run out of space for them (Weisbaum par. 3). Spaying and neutering is the simple solution to all of this. If all pet owners spayed and neutered their animals, there would be a very significant decrease in the population of stray animals running around and therefore fewer animals in shelters. In addition, the number of animals being euthanized each year would also decrease in numbers. Spaying and neutering is recommended by many surgical center owners such as Dr. Cathrine Darr, because it is much more humane than seeing unwanted dogs and cats die of starvation, get euthanized

According to a USA Today article on May 7, 2013, pets living in states with the highest spaying/neutering rates live the longest. The article also mentions an 18 percent longer life span in neutered male dogs, and a 23 percent longer lifespan in spayed female dogs (“Why” par. 6). One of the things that helps guarantee their happiness is having exceptional health. Pets live longer, healthier lives, and are a lot less likely to get certain types of cancer when they have been spayed or neutered (“Spay-Neuter” par. 1). Contrary to belief, it is not cruel to spay or neuter your pet (“Benefits” par. 1). Pyometra which is a very fatal uterine infection can develop in female dogs and cats, as well as uterine cancer, and many other reproductive organ cancers (“Why” par. 9). Female dogs and cats are much less likely to develop reproductive cancers and mammary tumors when they are spayed or neutered (“Spay-Neuter” par. 1). Medical evidence also suggests that if females are spayed before they go into heat for the first time, they are usually healthier as well (“Why” par 10). Most veterinarians fix cats and dogs at about eight weeks of age (“Why” par. 10). Dr. ‘Oats’ Telep says, “Planned or unplanned pregnancies can also put your female pet at risk for complications” (“Benefits” par. 4). Dr. Telep also explains, “Neutering a male pet is good practice as well. The health benefits are also a longer

1). The millions of dogs and cats that are euthanized each year in animal shelters is caused by there not being enough responsible owners for them (“Pet” par. 2). There are many things that can be done to help prevent pet overpopulation. First of all, pet owners should always spay and neuter their pets. This obviously helps keep the numbers down because there are less kittens being born. Secondly, nonprofit rescue groups and shelters are the best place you can adopt your pet. In many shelters not finding a home quickly enough can lead to their euthanization, and them never getting a chance at a happy life. Thirdly, pet owners should consider all of the consequence and responsibilities that come with making a lifetime commitment to their pet. If you get a pet you need to consider every detail that comes with owning said pet. Lastly, teaching people like family, friends, and co-workers about the importance of spaying and neutering can help other pet owners make the best decisions for their pets as well (“Pet” par. 5). The veterinary profession is encouraged to assist, however and whenever they possibly can to help in reducing the number of pets by the American Humane Association. They help in controlling the pet