5 Myths About Spaying and Neutering

I know some people don’t always think about spaying or neutering their pets. It’s not that they are not caring owners but they aren’t sure if it is necessary for a variety of reasons or they have heard horror stories and don’t want their pet to experience any major problems or tough recoveries. There are so many myths and assumptions out there about why spaying and neutering can be bad for your pet, but they are just myths and the benefits outweigh them by far.

Here are 5 myths about spaying and neutering your pet:

1: Myth: My pet will get fat and lazy.
Fact: Your pet can get fat and lazy no matter what. Exercise, portion control, and a high quality diet will prevent this from happening.

2: Myth: My pet is a purebreed.
Fact: Did you know about 1 in 4 dogs and cats turned into shelters are purebreds? It doesn’t matter if your pet comes from a pedigree line. There are too many animals that do not have homes. If your pet gets out of the house and mates with another, then either you or the owner of the pet will have their hands full with vet visits, caring for a litter, and financial expenses, as well as possible health problems that can arise.

3: Myth: My dog may lose some of his protective instincts.
Fact: A dog’s natural inclination to be in a pack and social is usually enough to make him bark or show some protective instincts towards strangers. A dog’s personality owes much to its genetics and the environment it grows up in and little to do with hormones.

4: Myth: My male dog may feel like he’s less male.
Fact: Animals do not feel “more male” or “less male.” That is a sexual identity that people are placing onto their pets. Their basic personality is there and while a change in hormones might calm them down a little and cut down on trying to mount and hump things and others, your dog will not feel “less male.”

5: Myth: Spaying and neutering is too pricey.
Fact: The cost is based on age, size, and sex of your pet, and any other variables that arise. It’s a one-time fee. Factor in the benefits in the long run for your wallet and pet when thinking about this procedure. Your pet will have a decreased change of prostate cancer, unwanted litters of kittens or puppies, decreased chance of your pet wandering away following an instinct to mate, and lower chances of other types of cancers associated with in-tact females and males. Many organizations have low-cost options or offer discounts as well free spay and neuter days. Get in touch with your local animal welfare agency if you need financial assistance and see if you are eligible for a discount.