Cats and dogs are our pets, yet frequently they are treated as disposable commodities. They are dependent on us for survival, and we have a responsibility for their welfare, yet millions of them suffer due to irresponsible pet ownership.
All too often, family pets are surrendered because they are ill or old, or no longer suit the needs of their owners, or because caring for them has become inconvenient or expensive. According to the Humane Society of the United States, “moving” and “landlord issues” are among the top reasons why pet owners give up their dogs and cats.
Unrealistic expectations and poor understanding of normal pet behavior, training and socialization also contribute to the high number of owner surrenders. Better education about the responsibility of pet ownership is imperative.
Simply put, sterilized pets are healthier pets. Neutering male cats and dogs eliminates the risk of testicular cancer and reduces the incidence of prostate cancer. In females, spaying can reduce or eliminate the chance of ovarian, uterine and mammary cancer, as well as life-threatening uterine infections. Fixing your pet can decrease howling, spraying, mounting, fighting, biting, aggressive behavior and the urge to roam. Statistically, pets who are spayed or neutered live longer than those who are not. The needless euthanization of healthy, adoptable pets is a true tragedy, and spaying or neutering should be standard practice for pet owners. These are more than just surgeries, they are solutions to a bigger problem.
