Understanding the Myths of Spaying and Neutering

In the realm of pet care, few topics are as contentious as the decision to spay or neuter a beloved animal. Embedded within this discourse are a plethora of myths and misconceptions that often cloud the judgment of well-meaning pet owners. From fears of altering a pet’s personality to concerns about the procedure’s long-term effects, these myths can sow doubt and confusion, making it challenging for individuals to make informed decisions regarding their furry companions’ reproductive health.

• Spaying and neutering does not make your animal fat. Rather, overfeeding and lack of exercise are the causes for overweight animals.
• Spaying and neutering does not cause your animal health and/or emotional problems. Animals do not have the emotional attachment to their reproductive organs as humans would assume.
• If you think you are in the clear because you have a male, understand that it only takes a few minutes for animals to breed.  One unneutered male can be solely responsible for dozens of offspring in just one year.
• It is not possible to keep an eye on your unspayed female every minute of the day, and again, all it takes for her to become pregnant is a few minutes. Unneutered males have unbelievable scent capabilities to find her when she is in heat.
• If you have a purebred animal, know that 25-35% of the dogs euthanized in shelters are purebreds.  Purebreds, as well as their offspring, are also subject to overpopulation and overbreeding
• If you would like your family to witness the miracle of birth, please do so through an interactive learning source or video.  Unless you are prepared to show them the reality and consequences of overpopulation – animals being put to death – this lesson is counterproductive and dangerous.
• For every home you find for the puppies and kittens you allow your animal to have, a home has been taken away from a shelter animal waiting for a home before being euthanized.  Overpopulation is a result of overbreeding!   Please don’t allow an animal to enter this world only to be killed.