Hundreds of thousands of unwanted pets are killed in North America each year because many people still do not understand the seriousness of the pet overpopulation problem. If more people would spay or neuter their petscespecially their catscthe majority of these animals would not have to die. (Because many dog owners also share their home with cats, we are presenting information for both dogs and cats in this article.)

Myth: Spayed or neutered pets get fat and lazy.

Myth: Female dogs and cats should have one litter before being spayed.

Myth: Female dogs and cats can only get pregnant once a year, so why bother having them fixed?

Myth: We can't afford the surgery.

Myth: There are no health or behavioral benefits to spaying or neutering.

Myth: Spaying and Neutering is a waste of money.

Myth: Pets need to be 6 to 12 months of age before being spayed or neutered.

Myth: It's a good idea to spay female cats and dogs, but with male dogs and cats it doesn't matter.