Importance of Spay and Neuter
Spay or neuter is one of the best things that you can do for your pet, and will allow your pet to live a longer, happier, healthier life. Spay/neuter is the surgical removal of an animal's reproductive organs performed by veterinarians.
By spaying or neutering your pet, you can be a part of reducing the overpopulation of homeless animals by stopping unwanted births. The surgery can also improve behavioral issues by removing the influence of sex hormones. Animals are less inclined to wander after spay/neuter, and it stops the messy heat cycle of female animals. Spaying and neutering your pet will also greatly reduce the development of mammary tumors in females and reproductive organ tumors in males and females.
Spaying or neutering your pet is not likely to affect the pet's personality; the overall playfulness and excitement of your pet is not based on sex hormones. Spay or neuter surgery can lead to weight gain, but this can be controlled with exercise and proper diet.
The SPCA offers a low-cost spay or neuter program through our in-house clinic, Louise R. Lester Spay & Neuter Clinic. For more information on this program, read here.