RescueMe Documentary Spay and Neuter information

Myths and Truths of Spay and Neuter
Myth: The surgery is hard on pets.
Truth: Spaying and neutering are simple, safe procedures and are performed under general anesthetic. Animals usually return to normal activity within 24 to 72 hours.

Myth: My dog will get fat.
Truth: Dogs get fat because they overeat and don't get enough exercise, just like people. An overweight dog might also have a thyroid problem which is easily treated with medication. Take your dog for a few walks!

Myth: My dog is unique. I want another one just like her!
Truth: While scientists are experimenting with cloning, it's impossible for the rest of us to be genetic engineers. Even responsible breeders can't control the outcome of their litters. Appreciate your dog's unique qualities and if you want another dog, choose one of the dogs that are waiting for homes of their own. They are special, too.

Myth: Spaying and neutering is expensive.
Truth: There are several low cost options in Austin. Animal Trustees operates an excellent low cost spay/neuter clinic. Emancipet mobile spay/neuter clinic travels all over Austin and outside of Austin and even offers free surgery to pets whose owners live East of Congress Ave. every Friday. At any price, the surgery is a bargain compared to the cost of raising a litter of puppies or dealing with the cancers associated with not spaying or neutering.

Myth: Neutering my Dog will make him less "manly".
Truth: Neutering your dog won't change his personality. However, he will be less likely to fight, mark his territory and roam all over your neighborhood and he will no longer be at risk for several types of testicular and prostate diseases.

Myth: I have a boy dog, why should I care?
Truth: Fine, so you won't have any puppies to take care of and worry about, but your neighbors and their neighbors and the folks who live 10 blocks away might not be so lucky. Your dog's urge to roam will take him on dangerous adventures all over town as he searches for a mate. Neutering your dog will reduce his chances of getting into a fight over a female and getting hit by a car as he's roaming and he'll no longer be at risk for prostate problems.

Myth: My dog is purebred, I won't have any trouble finding homes for all of her puppies.
Fact: 1 in 4 of the pets in animal shelters are purebred and there is no guarantee that any of them will find homes. Take a trip to Town Lake Animal Shelter and see the number of purebred dogs that are waiting for homes. Every puppy you find a home for mean one less home for a dog in a shelter. Unless you are a responsible breeder, and are able to keep the entire litter, take any back that don't work out in their new homes and ensure that each one of the puppies you home is spayed/neutered, you are part of the problem.