"But My Dog..."People give a number of reasons for not spaying or neutering their pets - most of them based on misconceptions. But My Dog... is a purebred. That dog has a lot of
company in shelters around the country. According to the Humane Society of the
But My Dog... should have a litter first. All medical evidence indicates just the opposite. It is much healthier for a for a dog to be spayed before the first heat cycle. But My Dog... is a male. Perhaps your backyard won't be filled with puppies, but your neighbors might not be so lucky. Your dog may sire many litters, contributing to pet overpopulation. His urge to roam may also take him on dangerous adventures in the streets and yards of your neighborhood. Neutering your male will not make him feel like "less of a dog" - and will probably be a lot happier. Editors note: Male dogs that are neutered no longer run the risk for prostate problems either!) But My Dog... should be protective. Don't worry, most dogs are instinctively protective of their homes and families, and this trait is not affected by sterilization. In addition, neutered animals are not distracted by turbulent hormonal influences and respond just as well, if not better, to training. But My Dog... will get fat. Just like its human companions, a dog gets fat because of overeating and lack of exercise. While it is true that neutering slows a dog's metabolism, a slight adjustment at dinnertime should eliminate any problem. But My Dog... is special. Of course it is. You will never find another dog just like it, even among its offspring. Even professional breeders who work with several generations of well-planned litters are not able to completely control the outcome of their efforts. It's best to appreciate your dog for its unique qualities. If you want another pet, look among the many already born and in need of homes. Even a pet owner who finds loving homes for any puppies his or her dog gives birth to has still contributed to the problems of pet overpopulation. The number of animals as well as the potential for many more has increased, and fewer homes are available for those already waiting. Simply put, more animals will die. Parents who want to illustrate the facts of life for their children should consider how much easier it is to find a good book at the library to rent an appropriate video than to clean up after a litter of busy puppies and pay for their health care. Responsible pet care is a wonderful way to teach respect for all living beings. They should also take their kids to the back room of the local animal control establishment for a first hand education in how to put an animal down. |
Every single day over 70,000 puppies
and kittens are born in the
Left to fen for themselves, these poor creatures suffer from a lack of food and protection, as well as loving care. Millions each year are put to sleep (euthanized) in the name of animal control or used as subjects for bio-medical research.
1. The answer is very simple. Spay and Neuter your pets! Many local humane societies offer low cost spay and neuter services to those unable to pay the full cost. But even if you have to pay the full amount, it sure beats the time, trouble and expense of dealing with unwanted litters.
2. We all have a responsibility to ensure that unwanted animals are not brought into a life of pain and suffering. Please encourage your friends, loved ones and neighbors to spay and neuter their pets.
3. Speak to the member of your church or community organizations about the seriousness of the pet over population program.
4. Contact your local officials. Encourage them to establish legislation with will encourage spay/neuter (such as a discount on county tags for neutered animals) or discourage irresponsible breeding (such as requiring a permit to breed pets). (Editors Note: If anyone can figure out a way to draw up and pass a bill allowing spay/neuter tax deductions, let me know!)
5. Educate your children, and grandchildren about the responsibilities of pet ownership.