
🐾 February is National Spay & Neuter Month! 🐾
Let’s talk about the snip ✂️—because preventing surprise litters isn’t just responsible, it’s a lifesaver! 🦸♀️🐶🐱
At Wings and Paws Rescue, we see first-hand the impact of unplanned litters. Every year, thousands of unwanted puppies, kittens, and rabbits end up in rescues, struggling to find homes. While we love helping animals in need, the reality is that overpopulation puts immense strain on rescues, making it harder for every animal to get the love and care they deserve.
But the good news? There’s a simple and effective way to help: spaying and neutering your pets!
What is Spaying and Neutering?
Spaying (for females) and neutering (for males) are routine surgical procedures performed by vets to prevent animals from reproducing. Spaying involves removing a female’s ovaries and uterus, while neutering removes a male’s testicles. These procedures are safe, commonly performed, and come with huge benefits for both pets and their owners.
The Health Benefits of Spaying & Neutering
Did you know that fixing your pet can significantly improve their health and wellbeing? It’s not just about preventing a population boom—there are serious medical advantages too!
✨ Lowers the Risk of Cancer & Infections
Spaying eliminates the risk of ovarian and uterine cancer in females and drastically reduces the chance of mammary (breast) cancer, especially if done before the first heat cycle.
Neutering prevents testicular cancer and lowers the risk of prostate problems in males.
Both procedures eliminate the risk of life-threatening infections like pyometra, a severe uterine infection that can be fatal if left untreated.
✨ Reduces the Urge to Roam
Unneutered pets, especially males, have a strong instinct to seek out mates, often leading them to escape their homes and wander into dangerous situations. Road accidents, fights with other animals, and getting lost are all risks associated with roaming.
✨ Helps Curb Unwanted Behaviours
Spraying, marking territory, excessive howling, yowling, or barking - many of these behaviours are linked to mating instincts and can be reduced or eliminated after spaying/neutering.
It can also reduce aggression in some male pets, making interactions with other animals and humans more peaceful.
And let’s be honest, no one wants their dog awkwardly humping everything in sight. 🙈
The Impact on Animal Rescues
One of the biggest reasons to spay and neuter? It saves lives. Every year, rescues across the UK are overwhelmed with unwanted litters. While we do everything we can to help, there are simply not enough homes for every animal born.
By spaying or neutering your pet, you’re directly reducing the number of animals who end up in rescues, giving those already in need a better chance of finding loving homes. 💕
Common Myths About Spaying & Neutering—Busted!
🚫 “My pet will get fat if I neuter them.”💡 Not true! Weight gain is caused by diet and exercise, not spaying/neutering. Keeping your pet active and feeding them the right amount will prevent excess weight.
🚫 “It’s better to let my female have one litter first.”💡 Actually, spaying before the first heat cycle provides the most health benefits, including the best protection against mammary cancer.
🚫 “It’s unnatural to alter animals.”💡 Domestic pets rely on humans for care. Spaying/neutering prevents suffering by reducing unwanted litters and health risks.
🚫 “It’s expensive.”💡 Many rescues and vets offer low-cost spay/neuter programmes.
When Should You Spay or Neuter?
Most vets recommend:🐶 Dogs: Between 6–12 months.🐱 Cats: Around 4–5 months old, before their first heat cycle.🐰 Rabbits: Between 4–6 months old.
If your pet is older and hasn’t been fixed yet, it’s never too late! They can still gain significant health and behavioural benefits from the procedure.
Book That Appointment—Be a Hero!
If your furry friend isn’t fixed yet, now’s the time! Spaying and neutering doesn’t just protect your pet - it helps reduce animal homelessness, improves behaviour, and increases their lifespan.
Be a legend. Book that vet appointment today and give your pet the healthiest, happiest life possible.
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