Spaying or neutering a pet involves removing portions of a pet's reproductive system (such as the testicles in male pets or the ovaries in a female pet) to prevent them from reproducing. If your pet isn't already spayed or neutered, now is a great time to talk to your vet about having this procedure done. After all, there are many benefits that you, your pet, and the entire pet population can enjoy by having this done.

Protect Your Pet's Health

For starters, when your pet is spayed or neutered, he or she will enjoy a number of health benefits compared to a non-altered pet. For males and females alike, the risk of developing certain types of reproductive cancers is much lower when a pet has been spayed or neutered. Furthermore, in female pets, a spay procedure saves her from the physical and emotional stress of pregnancy, labor, and caring for a litter.

Reduce Flight Risk

Pets who are not spayed or neutered will have a natural urge to leave home in an attempt to find a mate. This is true of both cats and dogs alike. When you have your pet spayed or neutered, you can reduce their urge to roam and thus cut back on the chances of your pet running away. Of course, it's still always a good idea to have your pet microchipped just in case.

Improve Overall Temperament

Pets who have been spayed or neutered also tend to have a better overall temperament compared with non-altered pets. This is because the territorial and similar mating behavior that is in your pet's nature is eradicated with the spay or neuter procedure. For male pets, this means your pet will be much less likely to "spray" in the house. For female and male pets alike, it also means your pet may be better behaved.

Prevent Unwanted Litters

Last but certainly not least, having your pet spayed or neutered is a great way to help prevent unwanted litters, which are a major contributor to overpopulation and overcrowding in animal shelters. When your pet doesn't reproduce, this indirectly frees up space in local pet shelters for pets who may otherwise be euthanized.

One simple procedure can bring so many benefits to your pet's life and the lives of other animals. If your pet is not yet spayed or neutered, be sure to contact a local clinic like All Creatures Animal Hospital to schedule a procedure.