When you get a new puppy or adopt a rescue from the pound, part of responsible pet care is having your new furry friend spayed or neutered. Many animal shelters and breeders offer to spay or neuter your dog and include the expense as part of the price of adoption because it's so essential. Here's what you need to know about this procedure for your pet.

Why You Should Spay or Neuter Your Pet

There is a major problem nationwide with an excess of unwanted pets. Many dogs are euthanized each year, not because they wouldn't make a loving and devoted companion but because there are simply more dogs than homes willing to receive them. Preventing your dog from breeding helps reduce the number of unwanted puppies and reduces the number of stray and homeless dogs. Additionally, pets that are spayed or neutered live longer, wander less, and experience fewer health problems — including a reduced risk for some cancers. Finally, it can help discourage destructive and messy behavior like urine marking.

When to Spay or Neuter Your Pet

For a healthy puppy, a spay or neuter procedure can be conducted as early as eight weeks of age. However, the most common time to schedule this treatment is between six and nine months of age, as this gives your dog's health time to stabilize from any puppyhood illnesses or concerns. Older dogs can also be treated; however, sooner is better, as senior dogs are more prone to complications.

If you need to spay or neuter your new pet, schedule with Dykes Veterinary Clinic in Foley, AL. This is a full-service animal hospital serving Baldwin County, and it is staffed by experienced veterinarians, offering everything from basic wellness exams and vaccinations to specialty pet treatment. Using state-of-the-art equipment and providing a caring, comfortable environment, they are the area's most trusted provider. Call (251) 943-3211 to schedule a visit, or learn more about their services on their website.