World Spay Day Serves As Reminder To Spay And Neuter SD Pets

SAN DIEGO, CA — “Is your pet spayed or neutered?” You've probably heard the question even if you aren't a pet owner. World Spay Day, which was Tuesday, served as another reminder to make spay and neuter pets.

San Diego Humane Society used the day to create awareness of the important procedure by reminding people of the benefits of spaying and neutering. Overpopulation is the first key factor to come to mind for most, but people might not know there are many more benefits.

According to the humane society, spaying and neutering can protect an animal against a myriad of diseases including testicular cancer, mammary cancer, enlarged prostate glands and uterine cancer.

“By spaying and neutering animals in our care, we are preventing unwanted pregnancies and ensuring that we stay at zero euthanasia of healthy and treatable shelter animals,” said San Diego Humane Society chief medical officer Zarah Hedge.

Over the last year, the nonprofit organization performed 13,034 spay or neuter surgeries.

“Not only does it help curb overpopulation and prevent unwanted litters. But, spayed and neutered animals can live longer and they definitely don’t have the same issues with certain reproductive cancers," Hedge told Patch. "Neutered male dogs don’t tend to roam as frequently, so they are not as prone to getting hit by a car or other injuries. So we know it is just overall healthier for our animals and helps prevent and reduce animal overpopulation."

The humane society encourages pet owners to reach out to their veterinarian with questions regarding spaying and neutering. Their clinic also performs low-cost procedures. Visit their website for more information.