Why Should I Spay or Neuter My Pet?
The simple truth is there are more puppies, dogs, kittens, and cats than there are homes for them. In Fort Smith, many animals are euthanized every year because good homes can not be found for them. Be a responsible pet owner; Spay or Neuter your pet. Watch the video below to answer some important questions about why you should spay or neuter your pet.
The benefits of spaying or neutering your pet are numerous. It is agreed, almost universally, that spayed and neutered pets will live longer, healthier, happier lives than animals that have not been spayed or neutered. The costs associated with ownership of a neutered pet are less; from licensing costs, cleaning costs, and boarding fees to vet bills. Spaying or neutering is a sure way to save money on the long-term cost of pet ownership.
Your spayed or neutered pet is much less prone to certain cancers, reproductive diseases, and infections. They are less likely to wander from home; less likely to be involved in dominance or mating fights and therefore suffer injuries. They are less likely to “mark” inside your house. Most importantly, you won’t have to care for and try desperately to find homes for unexpected litters.
When should I spay or neuter?
The answer to that is simply as soon as your vet will perform the procedure. Prior to the first heat cycle in all females is best, there are fewer hormonal changes in the animal to occur. Dogs should be spayed or neutered by six months of age. Cats should be spayed or neutered at 4 months of age.
What is the cost of Spaying or Neutering?
Prices range from $150.00 to $300.00 and up depending on circumstances or the risk of complications. While the price is going to be set by your veterinarian, it will depend to some degree on the age of your animal and, in the case of females, whether or not they are pregnant or in heat. FSAS has spay and neutering assistance programs available for those in need.
How do I get my pet spayed or neutered?
You can make an appointment with Mackenzie Veterinary Clinic to spay or neuter your pet when they come to Fort Smith. Alternatively, you go to High Level or another community to get your pet spayed or neutered.
Do I have to spay or neuter my pet?
If you adopt your pet from the Fort Smith Animal Society it will be spayed or neutered before you can take it. If you get your pet elsewhere, the decision is yours. We strongly recommend you have it spayed or neutered. We spay or neuter the pets we adopt out partly to control the pet population in Fort Smith.