Special to the Aroostook Republican
The topic again, spaying and neutering and how very important it is. If you want to know why I speak of this topic so often, visit the Central Aroostook Humane Society, our shelter has many lovely cats and dogs waiting for homes and we work very hard to place the appropriate pet in the appropriate home. Many people find it easy to overlook the problem of pet overpopulation, simply because it is not always easy to see. Others are never taught about the benefits that spaying and neutering can bring. Be sure to get all the facts and learn why having your pet spayed or neutered is such an important part of responsible pet care.
Still thinking about whether or not you should have your pet spayed or neutered? (Why?) Many people find themselves locked in this debate when they get a new pet, wondering if it is worth the expense or whether it hurts their pet to have them fixed. Although there are many rumors and myths about the pros and cons of spaying and neutering, the facts show that it is one of the most important things you can do as a responsible pet owner to ensure the safety and happiness of your pets!
For instance, think about this:
• Estimates place the total population of cats and dogs in the United States at approximately 60 and 65 million, respectively;
• Of these, approximately 8-10 million animals are entered into shelters each year; and
• Nearly half of these — some 4-5 million potential pets — go unclaimed and unadopted each year and are thus euthanized.
Every day then, nearly 14,000 cats and dogs are euthanized across the country. The ways that these pets end up in these shelters is varied — some are unwanted, others are lost, and many are lifelong strays, animals who have never had a home or an owner to care for them.
Why so many? These are large numbers — it is surprising to most people when they hear how many animals there are in the U.S., let alone how many are euthanized each day. The most significant reason for this is also one of the most obvious. Essentially, one cat or dog that goes without being spayed or neutered can produce many offspring in a very short time:
• Estimates show that a normal female cat can average three litters per year, while a normal dog averages two; and
• Although litter size varies, the typical litter size for cats is four to six kittens, while the typical litter size for dogs is six to 10 puppies. Thus, one cat can produce as many as 18 offspring in a given year, and one dog as many as 20.
The net result is a population explosion! Theoretically speaking, with their offspring, one cat can wind up producing 420,000 other cats, and one dog could produce 67,000 other dogs in just six to seven years!
No matter what you have for a pet, dog or cat, it is so very important to be part of the solution and have your pet spayed or neutered. There just aren’t enough homes for all of them.
Please visit the Central Aroostook Humane Society when looking for a “friend for life.” We are open Tuesday-Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., or give us a call at 764-3441.
