Here’s why pet owners need to sterilise their pets

There are too many unwanted animals, and not enough homes for them in our communities. The pet overpopulation is a direct result of irresponsible pet owners failing to have their animals sterilised. In order to lower the number of unwanted dogs and cats, sterilisation is available at private vets and the SPCA.

Read more: Sandton SPCA postpones Puppy Pilates due to canine parvovirus outbreak

According to the Durban & Coast SPCA, the following are reasons why pet owners should sterilise their pets:

More pleasant for the pet owner
Since your female dog will not come into season (on heat), there will be no mess from spotting (traces of blood left on bedding or carpets). In addition, you won’t be bothered by males howling and fighting outside your gate, or trying to get into your property to mate with her.
Your pet will enjoy a longer, healthier life
Spaying eliminates the risk of uterine or ovarian cancer, and substantially reduces the chance of your dog or cat developing breast cancer. Neutering male dogs and cats has similar health benefits. It reduces the chance of prostate cancer and eliminates testicular cancer.
Your pet will be more loving
A dog that has been spayed or neutered is calmer, less aggressive, and more affectionate towards its owners, because it is not distracted by hormonal urges. Sterilisation does not affect a dog’s ability to learn or play, nor will it make him, or her, less protective of your home and family.

Also read: Adopt a pet at Sandton SPCA

Eliminates or reduces unwanted behaviour
Neutering male dogs and cats reduces aggressive behaviour and the urge to roam in search of a mate. Pets that are content to stay at home are less likely to be hit by a car, get into fights with other animals, spread disease, disturb neighbours by howling or barking, or bite someone. Cats are less likely to ‘spray’ inside and outside your home to mark their territory with strong smelling urine.
Timeframe to get your pet sterilised
As a pet owner, normally you want to have your female pet spayed before the first estrous cycle, ie, before she goes on heat. This is usually around six months for cats and small dogs. At the SPCA, all animals are sterilised before being re-homed, from eight weeks upwards. Large breed dogs may need more time to reach full size before being sterilised, but it should be done before they turn one. Speak to your vet about your intention to have your pet sterilised and discuss the timing with them.

If you cannot afford the cost of sterilisation by a private vet, contact your nearest SPCA to see if you qualify for special rates. Should you adopt a dog or cat from the SPCA, the animal will be sterilised before you are allowed to take it home

Information was obtained from: SPCA

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