Myths & Facts about Spaying and Neutering
MYTH: My pet will gain weight and become lazy if he or she is neutered or spayed.
FACT: Hormonal changes do occur after spay or neuter procedures, but you can help your pet adjust by feeding your pet accordingly and giving your companion plenty of exercise.
MYTH: My pet will come home from the procedure with an entirely different personality.
FACT: The personality of your pet is bound to change for the better when you spay or neuter them. In females, less crying and frantic behavior will occur since they are not in heat, and males become less aggressive, are less likely to roam and mark territory.
MYTH: Animal sterilization just isn't "natural".
FACT: Humans have irreversibly domesticated dogs and cats. Their survival is no longer a "natural" process. Thousands of animals are destroyed every year because of overpopulation. The more animals that are spayed or neutered means the less animals on the streets, without homes, that are bound to live miserable and disease-ridden lives.
MYTH: It is dangerous to put my pet under anesthesia.
FACT: Your veterinarian is a highly skilled and caring professional. Most vets will run a complete blood test to check organ function before your pet is put under anesthesia.
MYTH: A neuter will offend my dog or cat's masculinity.
FACT: Animals are unfamiliar with the human concept of masculinity. Your male dog or cat will be less likely to develop testicular tumors and prostate cancer. Now that's something any "guy" should thank you for.
MYTH: My female dog or cat will be happier if she is allowed to have at least one litter.
FACT: Female dogs and cats actually do not benefit temperamentally from having at least one litter. Also, if female dogs and cats are spayed before their first heat they are less likely to have breast cancer, uterine infections, and ovarian cysts.
MYTH: This procedure is too expensive for me to afford.
FACT: A spay or neuter can be expensive, but there are many organizations in your community, including Almost Home Foundation, that will help you to find a cost efficient way to spay or neuter your pet.
