Spaying and neutering and procedures performed by veterinarians the prevent dogs from reproducing. It is a routine procedure and provides a number of important benefits to both your terrier and the dog population in general. Female dogs are spayed, males are neutered. This can be done as early as eight weeks of age and is recommended before six months. Check with a vet to make sure the timing is right to perform the procedure.
Spayed dogs eliminate their risk of tumors in the female reproductive system. They are also less likely to develop breast cancer. Neutered dogs are not at risk of developing testicular cancer. They also decrease their chances of problems arising from prostate enlargement. Both males and females who are not neutered can display behavioral problems. Howling, urine marking and roaming to find a mate can all be diminished by spaying and neutering.
Many times this procedure will have already been performed before the adoption takes place. If not, there are number of low-cost options available. Local animal shelters often provides subsidized services. They may also provide vouchers that will cut the cost of the procedure at local vets. Your local vet may even be able to work out a payment plan to make spaying and neutering more affordable.
There is a huge problem with pet overpopulation. Hence the ready overabundance of dogs ready to be adopted. There are simply more dogs than good homes. By doing the responsible thing and spaying or neutering, you are helping to decrease the number of animals that cannot be cared for.
