Spaying and neutering are standard aspects of pet health care. For small dogs and cats, you can schedule the procedure when they’re as young as sixteen weeks old.  For larger breed dogs we recommend waiting until they are 8-9 months of age.  Getting your puppy fixed holds many benefits for both of you.

Why You Should Get Your Dog Spayed or Neutered

1. Improves Pet Health

There are many health risks associated with intact dogs. For example, male dogs frequently suffer from testicular cancer when they get older. 27% of unneutered male dogs will develop one or more testicular tumors in their lifetime.

Female dogs that are spayed before their first heat cycle have lower rates of developing breast cancer and ovarian cancer. Spaying your pup can also eliminate the risk of uterine cancer and infections.

2. Calms Pet Behavior

Dogs are difficult to handle when they’re interested in mating. Females in heat tend to be jumpy and agitated. They can also attract strange and unwelcome dogs to your home. Males trying to mate are more likely to escape your yard and become injured when they’re loose and wandering around the neighborhood or streets.

Neutered males are also less aggressive toward other male dogs. Both male and female dogs urinate more often when left intact or unaltered. Spaying and neutering help them stay calm, relaxed, and well-behaved.

3. Reduced Overpopulation

63% of households in the U.S. own a dog, which translates to about 89.7 million pups. However, that obviously doesn’t include dogs in shelters, rescues, and strays with no owners. There are more dogs in America than there are loving homes ready to receive them.

Unplanned or unwanted litters of puppies contribute to overcrowded animal shelters, increasing the number of dogs that have to be put down each year. By preventing your dog from breeding, you’re doing your part to minimize the suffering of these furry friends, ensuring fewer dogs end up without a home.

To make an appointment for spaying or neutering, call O’Fallon Veterinary Medical Center. These professionals serve residents and their pets throughout St. Charles County, MO. They pride themselves on keeping their facility clean and up-to-date to provide the highest quality of care. They’re committed to service and communication, so you’ll leave satisfied after every visit. They also offer dentistry and pet boarding services for your furry family members. Call (636) 272-3100 or visit their website to schedule an appointment.