Spay and Neuter Assistance
Why Spay and Neuter?
WHAT DO "SPAY" AND "NEUTER" MEAN?
Female dogs and cats are spayed by removing their reproductive organs, and male dogs and cats are neutered by removing their testicles. In both cases the operation is performed while the pet is under anesthesia.
SPAYING/NEUTERING IS GOOD FOR YOUR PET
- Spaying and neutering helps dogs and cats live longer, healthier lives.
- Spaying and neutering can eliminate or reduce the incidence of a number of health problems that can be very difficult or expensive to treat.
- Spaying eliminates the possibility of uterine or ovarian cancer and greatly reduces the incidence of breast cancer, particularly when your pet is spayed before her first estrous cycle.
- Neutering eliminates testicular cancer and decreases the incidence of prostate disease.
SPAYING /NEUTERING IS GOOD FOR YOU
- Neutering cats makes them less likely to spray and mark territory.
- Spaying a dog or cat eliminates her heat cycle. Estrus lasts an average of six to 12 days, often twice a year, in dogs and an average of six to seven days, three or more times a year, in cats. Females in heat can cry incessantly, show nervous behavior, and attract unwanted male animals.
- Unsterilized animals often exhibit more behavior and temperament problems than do those who have been spayed or neutered.
- Spaying and neutering can make pets less likely to bite.
- Neutering makes pets less likely to roam the neighborhood, run away, or get into fights.
- Spaying/neutering = less expensive dog license!!!
SPAYING/NEUTERING IS GOOD FOR THE COMMUNITY
- Communities spend millions of dollars to control unwanted animals.
- Irresponsible breeding contributes to the problem of dog bites and attacks.
- Animal shelters are overburdened with surplus animals. For every person that is born, 45 cats and 15 dogs are also born.
- Stray pets and homeless animals get into trash containers, defecate in public areas or on private lawns, and frighten or anger people who have no understanding of their misery or needs.
Thank you for spaying/neutering your pet!
Where to get your pet spayed or neutered
HSWM encourages you to call your regular vet to schedule your pet's spay or neuter appointment. If you qualify for low income, HSWM may be able to schedule your pet for a reduced fee surgery. Click here for a schedule of upcoming spay/neuter clinics hosted by HSWM.
You can also email the Program Manager or call 549-HSWM for more information or to make an appointment.
Call Missoula County Animal Control to see what spay/neuter reduced cost coupons are available. Their number is 541-7387.