*Neutered Pets are Healthier*
Neutering your pet will ensure that it cannot
contribute to the pet overpopulation problem. As well, neutered pets
can be much healthier. Neutering dogs eliminates or significantly
decreases the chances of the following medical problems occurring:
Male Dog:
* testicular tumours (some of which are malignant)
* prostate problems
* perineal hernias
* certain skin and glandular growths dependent on male hormones (i.e.
adenomas)
Female Dog:
* ovarian tumours and uterine growths
* potentially fatal uterine infection (pyometra)
* false pregnancies and mammary gland infections (mastitis)
* mammary tumours (many of which are malignant)
* death during whelping.
*Other Benefits*
Besides eliminating or significantly decreasing
various medical problems, neutering your pet has a variety of other
benefits, Some of these are listed below:
* male dogs are less likely to roam and hence are less likely to be
injured by cars or to encounter rabid animals.
* neutered pets will not contribute to the pet overpopulation problem.
* problems associated with female dogs going into heat will be
eliminated.
*Myths Associated with Neutering Pets*
Several myths have developed regarding neutering
pets. One myth is that an animal's personality changes after it is
neutered. This belief is incorrect. Neutering a pet can eliminate or
reduce certain annoying habits that some pets have, but it will not
alter the animal's personality.
The idea that a neutered pet automatically
becomes fat after the operation is also wrong. It is the owner's
responsibility to ensure that their pet does not become overweight.
Weight is primarily a function of food volume and exercise. Older pets
tend to be less active and often require less, or lower calorie food.
The idea that female dogs...should go through a
heat or have a litter prior to being spayed is also untrue. There are
no benefits to allowing this to occur, however, as mentioned
previously, drastic consequences could result.
The only exceptions to neutering should be for
animals bred for show (by responsible breeders) or upon the
recommendation of a veterinarian.
This spay/neuter information was provided by the
Ontario Humane Society in the interest of animal welfare.
Submitted by:
Norma Dirszowsky
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