Tues. Tip: Save for Spay & Neutering

Altering a pet dog is recommended by many rescue organizations and breeders alike.  Proponents support the practice by claiming that it reduces aggression, marking issues, and certain types of cancer.  Additionally, they support neutering and spaying because of multi pet families that do not monitor their pets at all times.  Considering that neutering your dog can be expensive (spaying even moreso), it’s good to consider some low cost providers.

Through browsing local media, pet owners can usually find clinics that visit local pet stores on the weekend, once or twice a month.  These day clinics provide spay and neuter programs at reduced costs relative to brick and mortar veterinarian offices.  If local pet retailers have no information on upcoming clinics in their stores, one should consider visiting the ASPCA, which has a locater on their site.  Many rescue programs provide direction for low cost or no-cost spay and neuter programs as well.

One research article cites multiple studies in order to explain why neutering and spaying is actually unadvisable.  In large breed dogs, hip dysplasia occurred twice as often among fixed males versus intact males used for study.  Lymphosarcoma was three times more prevalent in altered males when compared to those left in tact.  Hemangiosarcoma was present four times more often in altered females versus the un-spayed. 

It’s important for pet owners to consider their individual situations when considering to spay or neuter.  For some, it is the healthy thing to do and a surefire way to ensure that no unplanned breedings occur.  To others, altering a dog can actually decrease its quality of life, as removing their ability to reproduce also removes chemicals that are crucial for their maintenance and development.  Many people strike a balance, and wait until their pets have reached maturity at around 2 years of age before they decide to alter them.