ARL’s Dr. Schettino shares the awesome truth about spaying/neutering your pet

IT’S HIP TO SNIP! The ARL wants to break down barriers to getting pets spayed and neutered this February during National Spay/Neuter Awareness Month.

According to Dr. Schettino, vice president of animal welfare at the ARL, the cost of spay and neuter surgery is a major barrier for many pet owners. Spay and neuter surgery at a private veterinary clinic in Massachusetts can range up to several hundred dollars.

To bring affordable spay and neuter services to more animals in need, the Ellen B. Gray Memorial Fund has challenged us to raise $20,000 in just 14 days during the It’s Hip to Snip Fund Drive. All donations made during the fund drive will benefit the ARL’s community spay/neuter programs including the Spay Waggin,’ the ARL’s mobile surgical unit.

DONATE NOW to bring spay and neuter services to more animals in need.

Many misconceptions pet owners have about the low-risk surgery also stand in the way of increasing spay and neuter rates.

In a recent Twitter chat, Dr. Schettino debunked the 7 most common spay/neuter myths:

Myth #1: I don’t want my male dog or cat to feel like “less of a male.”
Fact: Pets don’t have any concept of sexual identity or ego. Neutering will not change a pet’s basic personality.

Myth #2: I want my children/family to see my pets experience the miracle of birth.
Fact: Complications can and do occur during the birthing process. Teach children/family members that all life is precious and by spaying and neutering your pet, he/she will lead a healthier, longer life.

Myth #3: It’s better to have one litter before spaying a female pet.
Fact: This is false. Females who are spayed before their first heat are typically healthier.

Myth #4: My pet is a purebred and I should breed him/her.
Fact: Your pet may be a purebred, but so is at least one out of every four pets brought to animal shelters throughout the country. Purebreds and their offspring are no exception and be spayed and neutered as well.

Myth #5: My pet will get fat and lazy.
Fact: Pets get fat and lazy because their owners overfeed them and don’t provide enough exercise, not because they are spayed or neutered.

Myth #6: My dog (or cat) is so special. I want a puppy/kitten just like her/him.
Fact: Your pet’s puppies or kittens will not be a carbon copy of your pet.

Myth #7: It’s expensive to have my pet spayed
Fact: Many affordable options exist. Check out the ARL’s spay/neuter resources to find one in your area.