Being homeless is the number one reason companion animals are killed in the United States. This is true in Manatee County where the greatest risk to dogs and cats is to enter the county animal shelter. More than half who entered in 2010 were killed.

The Humane Society of Manatee County offers a Low Cost Spay/Neuter Clinic

Prepubertal neutering (spay or castration) is not a new concept. Research shows that in the early 1900's, veterinarians advocated spaying bitches prior to weaning and castrating dogs as early as 4 weeks old. In July of 1993, a resolution was passed by the AVMA (American Veterinary Medical Association) stating support of the concept of early (8-16 weeks of age) ovariohysterectomies (spays) and gonadectomies (castrations) in dogs and cats, in an effort to stem the overpopulation problem in these species. An article in the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association, September 1993 issue, states that work has been done in Bradenton , Florida and Medford , Oregon for more than 25 years. In all of these cases, no long-term negative side effects from early age spay/neuter surgery have been found.

Spaying and neutering young, healthy kittens and puppies is a growing trend that has been endorsed by major humane organizations like the American Humane Association, the Humane Society of the United States , the American Veterinary medical Association, and the Cat Fanciers' Association. Early spay/neuter ensures that adopted animals will not contribute to pet overpopulation.

Benefits of Spaying/Neutering
Your pet will be healthier!

Your female dog or cat:

• Faces much less risk of developing cancer of the breast or serious infections of the uterus.
• Will not suffer the stress and frustration of heat periods.

Your male dog or cat:

• Faces much less risk of developing prostate infections or prostate cancer.
• Will no longer want to fight other animals.

Help your pets live longer and happier lives!

• Spaying and neutering helps dogs and cats live longer, healthier lives.
• Spaying and neutering eliminates the risk of uterine, ovarian and testicular cancer and reduces the risk of many other diseases.
• Spaying and neutering can make pets better, more affectionate companions and decrease territorial marking behaviors.
• Spaying or neutering is good for the community – communities spend millions of dollars to control unwanted animals.

Other Spaying/Neutering Facts

• Approximately 3000 animals were killed in 2010 in Manatee County alone.
• An altered pet is less likely to fight, bite, or roam.