Wednesday, January 14, 2009

The Importance of Spaying & Neutering your Pets

Animal Hospital of Nags Head
This is a very important subject that everyone should be well educated on when owning a pet. There are many reasons to spay or neuter your canine or feline friend; most important is a long healthy life. 

A female spayed before her first heat eliminates the chance of ever getting ovarian cancer and greatly reduces the risk of breast cancer. Also, a neutered male dog has eliminated his chances of ever getting testicular cancer.

Moving on, let's not forget all of the feline and canine companions that get put down each year due to overpopulation. Contrary to most beliefs, one fourth of all shelter dogs are pure bred. These numbers could be greatly reduced when a pet owner has their pet spayed/neutered.

For those wanting to have their animal spayed/neutered, but lack the funds, remember your local shelter and other non-profit organizations are out there to help us fight this battle of overpopulation. For more information on this contact your veterinarian.

Barrett Welch DVM (Retired)
Animal Hospital of Nags Head (Sold)
(Renamed business at this location January 2020 Sound Veterinary Hospital)