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An estimated 6 to 8 million cats and dogs enter shelters all over the country each year. Of that number, 3 to 4 million are euthanized. Animal overpopulation has become an epidemic. It occurs not only because strays and unsterilized pets are left to breed, but also because irresponsible dog owners choose to breed a whole litter of puppies when they intend to keep only one.
No less than half of all dogs in shelters end up there because they were relinquished by their owners. An unstable economy has forced households to prioritize their expenses, and pets don’t often make the cut. Coupled by suddenly finding the pet pregnant, some dog owners are left with no choice but to give their dog up. But when vets suggest owners have their dogs neutered, many of the latter reject the idea. Some believe this is psychologically harmful to their dog, or will cause future consequences. Here’s a list of the three most common misconceptions about sterilizing dogs and the truth to each one:
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The dog will feel like less of a “man” after being sterilized
Although dogs can suffer from trauma, the “shame” of being neutered is a human-associated emotion. Dogs develop their personalities from their genetics and environment. Sterilizing a dog will not affect its personality, except for giving it one less need to fulfill.
Spaying or neutering will cause weight gain
Dogs do not get fat from simply being sterilized alone. A healthy dog will only gain weight if it is fed more than exercised. Some owners sometimes cause their dog’s weight gain due to feeling sympathetic for the dog post-surgery. They give the dog extra treats or refrain from making it do too much activity because they “feel sorry” for having neutered him. There is no need to make a dog “feel better” because he will not “feel bad!” Exercise helps a dog recuperate from surgery and should be maintained regularly after sterilization.
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Spaying or neutering is expensive
While this may have been true in the ‘80s and ‘90s, overpopulation has led many clinics, pounds, and animal shelters to offer low-cost and even free dog sterilization programs. Veterinary clinics without free programs do offer payment in installments. Getting a pet dog neutered or spayed is the responsible action to take. Owners should not let their psychological fears prevent them from doing what is best for their pet.
Many humans make the mistake of assigning their emotions to their dogs. Experienced breeder and trainer Suzy Azalea discusses the difference between how humans and dogs interpret and react to their environment on this blog.
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