Why it’s important to spay and neuter pets
With nearly 40 years of experience working to address the concern of animal over population and the growing number of unwanted pets, here at HCAL, we understand the importance of spaying and neutering. And, we encourage pet owners to play their part in helping to decrease the overwhelming number of unwanted pets in the San Antonio and Hill Country areas.
In addition to supporting the community benefits of performing spay and neuter surgeries, below are several other reasons, including valuable health benefits, why it’s important to spay and neuter pets:
Population Control:
One of the primary reasons for spaying and neutering is to control the pet population. There are already millions of stray and unwanted animals worldwide and allowing pets to reproduce indiscriminately only adds to this problem. Spaying and neutering can help reduce the number of unwanted animals and prevent them from ending up in shelters or being euthanized.
Health Benefits:
Spaying and neutering can provide significant health benefits for pets. Spaying female animals eliminates the risk of uterine infections and greatly reduces the risk of mammary gland tumors and ovarian cancer. Neutering male animals helps prevent testicular cancer and reduces the risk of prostate problems. Overall, it can lead to longer, healthier lives for pets.
Behavioral Benefits:
Improve animal behavior by spaying and neutering your pets. Un-neutered male animals are often more prone to aggression, territorial marking, and roaming in search of mates. Female animals in heat may exhibit restlessness and attract unwanted attention from male animals. By spaying or neutering, these behavior problems can be minimized, making pets more manageable and less likely to engage in destructive or unsafe behaviors.
Preventing Roaming:
Un-spayed and neutered pets, especially males, are more likely to roam in search of mates. This can increase the risk of accidents, injuries, and getting lost or stolen. Neutering reduces the urge to roam and keeps pets closer to home, which helps keep them safe and secure.
Cost Savings:
Spaying and neutering can save pet owners money in the long run. The cost of spaying or neutering is often lower than the expenses associated with caring for a litter of puppies or kittens. Additionally, un-neutered male animals are more likely to engage in aggressive or territorial behavior, which can lead to injuries requiring veterinary care.
It’s important to consult with a veterinarian to determine the best time to spay or neuter your pet, as the optimal age may vary depending on the species, breed, and individual health considerations. We’re available to help pet owners protect their pet’s long-term health and well-being by providing low-cost spay and neuter surgeries and pet wellness services at our clinic. Schedule your spay and neuter appointment today.
