FLOYDCOUNTYGA.ORG
Floyd County Government Online

Health and Behavioural Benefits for your Pet

Spaying and neutering provides the following health and behavioural benefits for your
cat or dog:

• Prolongs life - almost by twice the life span in cats and a number of years for dogs
• Greatly decreased risk of breast cancer, ovarian cancer or cysts (females)
• Greatly decreased risk of prostate cancer or testicular tumors (males)
• Decreased occurrence of uterine infections
• Calmer and more reliable
• Less likely to wander

Spaying and Neutering Myths

My dog is a purebred so it's ok if I breed. 
The fact is that 25% of all animals found in a shelter are AKC or UKC purebreds. Every day 70,000 puppies and kittens are born in this country while only 10,000 people are born.  It's simple math - there just aren't enough homes for all of these animals. E very animal you breed and find a home for , you are taking a home away from a shelter pet.

My pet is a male. I won't have any litters.
These animals are a very big part of the pet overpopulation problem since they escape and breed with females in heat. They roam more, are more aggressive and produce litters for someone else to raise.

My children should see the miracle of birth. 
School programming, virtual computers or films can convey the same information in a more caring way. Visiting the local zoo or science center are other options. Children can experience the birthing process other ways and enjoy it more. Almost all mothers hide when they give birth to their puppies or kittens. So, in most cases, they won't see it. Also, responsible pet guardians should take into considersation the costs involved should an emergency arise during birth, care and feeding of the puppies, and vaccinations until a home can be found for them.

Spaying & neutering is painful for the pet. 
Surgery is performed under anesthesia and animals are usually back on their feet and into normal activities within 24 to 72 hours. This slight discomfort is not harmful and is far outweighted by the benefits to both your dog and the pet overpopulation problem.

If I neuter him, he won't be as protective.
Instinct is not affected by hormones.  In fact, most pets will actually be more effective at protection since they will have stabilized hormones.  They are usually easier to train.  Altered animals are protective and loyal to their owners and often will have reduced desires to wander, mark territory and fight with other animals.

They'll get fat and lazy. 
Not so. They need exercise just like they always did, but spaying them actually changes nothing as far as weight gain.

I paid good money for my dog, so I need to get my money back.  Most people do not realize the cost and responsibility involved in having a litter of puppies. Reputable breeders know that unless you have a champion dog and can enhance the breed, you are not going to make any money.