neutering pets, again

     Someone asked me recently if having a dog or cat spayed or neutered was sick, perverse, or mean. First, the answer is no. Many people have pets spayed or neutered because of all the unwanted pets who are killed in the United States each year. Millions of animals wind up in shelters every year because no one wants them. When no one adopts them from the shelter, many of them are killed. By spaying or neutering we hope to see fewer cats and dogs in shelters, and fewer cats and dogs killed. This will work because if enough people have their pets spayed or neutered, there won't be nearly as many cats and dogs. Even if you plan on finding a home for any kittens or puppies your pet has, that home might have gone to one of the unwanted pets in a shelter, if your cat or dog had been fixed so as not to have a litter.
     Animal welfare organizations such as the ASPCA promote spaying and neutering, but they seem to be preaching to the choir.

why we have animals spayed or neutered

     Someone suggested recently that people have animals spayed or neutered simply to be mean. Not so. We have animals (dogs and cats) spayed or neutered so that they won't have any kittens or puppies. Isn't that mean? No. Kittens and puppies are very cute, The problem is that no one wants all of the kittens and puppies we have now. Animal shelters across the United States kill them by the millions every year--because nobody wants them, and they can't be left roaming the streets--they would quickly become a health and safety hazard to people. So if you really like kittens and puppies, have your dog or cat spayed or neutered. Then some of the kittens and puppies in animal shelters will get a home the next time someone wants a kitten or puppy. If you really just have to have a houseful of kittens or puppies, ask your local animal shelter if they need anyone to foster a pregnant animal. Fostering means keeping the animal until it finds a permanent home. You can enjoy a houseful of kittens or puppies, and help shelter animals at the same time.