There are numerous reasons you should spay or neuter your dog! Let’s talk about health reasons first…
Female dogs that are spayed CAN’T get uterine cancers, their risk of mammary (breast) cancer is reduced by 25% and they are less prone to urinary tract infections.1 As early as 6 months of age, female dogs begin a biannual “heat” cycle during which they attract every non-neutered male dog within 20 miles. She can also have hormonal or personality changes and leak bloody vaginal discharge throughout your house. And no, it’s not true; your dog won’t get fat because you spay her.
Male dogs that are neutered CAN’T get testicular cancer and they live 40% longer than their non-neutered counterparts. Non-neutered male dogs respond to the “call of the wild” and their desire to wander is fierce. In fact, 62% of dogs hit by a car are non-neutered! Finally, 66% of non-neutered males get prostate disease.1
Aside from the important medical reasons for spaying or neutering you are doing the right thing for the serious overpopulation problem in the United States. Over 12 million unwanted dogs and cats are euthanized each year and even more are abandoned.1
Please contact your veterinarian if you have additional questions; they are the best resource for information about the health and well-being of your best friend.
1. Data on file at IDEXX Laboratories, Inc. Westbrook, Maine USA.