Myth: My pet will get fat and lazy. Fact: The truth is that most pets get fat and lazy because their owners feed them too much and don't give them enough exercise.
Myth: It's better to have one litter first. Fact: Medical evidence indicates the opposite. In fact, the evidence shows that females spayed before their first heat are typically healthier. Many veterinarians sterilize dogs and cats as young as eight weeks of age.
Myth: My children should experience the miracle of birth. Fact: Even if children are able to see a pet give birth - which is unlikely, since it usually occurs at night and in seclusion - the lessen they will really learn is that animals can be created and discarded as it suits adults. Instead, it should be explained to children that the real miracle is life and that preventing the birth of some pets can save the lives of others.
Myth: But my pet is a purebred. Fact: So is at least one out of every four pets brought to animal shelters around the country. There are just too many dogs and cats - mixed and purebred alike.
Myth: I want my dog to be protective. Fact: Spaying or neutering does not affect a dog's natural instincts to protect home and family. A dog's personality is formed more by genetics and environment than by sex hormones.
Myth: I don't want my male dog or cat to feel like less of a male. Fact: Pets don't have any concept of sexual identity or ego. Neutering will not change a pet's basic personality. He doesn't supper any kind of emotional reaction or identity crisis when neutered.
Myth: But my dog (or cat) is so special. I want a puppy (or kitten) just like them. Fact: A dog or cat may be a great pet, but that doesn't mean their offspring will be a carbon copy. In fact, an entire litter of puppies or kittens might receive all of a pet's (and their mate's) worst characteristics.
Myth: It's too expensive to have my pet spayed or neutered. Fact: There are many affordable spay/neuter options in our community. Please see the resources list we have made available. Whatever the actual price, spay or neuter surgery is a one-time cost - a relatively small cost when compared to all the benefits. It's a bargain compared to the cost of having a litter and ensuring the health of the mother and litter; two months of pregnancy and another two months until the litter is weaned can add up to significant veterinary bills and food costs; particularly if complications develop. Most importantly, it's a very small price to pay for the health of your pt and the prevention of the births of more unwanted pets.
Myth: I'll find good homes for all the puppies and kittens. Fact: You may find good homes for your pet's litter. But each home you find means on less home for the dogs and cats in shelters who need good homes. Also, in less than one year's time, each of your pet's offspring may have had his or her own litter, adding even more animals to the population. The problem of pet overpopulation is created and perpetuated one litter at a time.
