Overpopulation of dogs and cats is a major problem in the United States. It’s estimated that somewhere between 6-8 million animals enter shelters every year in the US. Less than half of those will be adopted and more than 1.5 million shelter animals are euthanized each year. While euthanasia has decreased over the last number of years, there remains a strong case for spaying and neutering dogs and cats.
Altering helps to reduce the number of unwanted pets brought into the world that may never find a loving family to provide the much-needed care they deserve. Additionally, “fixing” your pet may also prevent medical and behavioral problems from developing in a cat or dog, allowing a pet to lead a longer, healthier, and happier life.
While research shows somewhere in the vicinity of 80% of pet owners believe in spay/neuter, over 50% of litters are accidental. The Association of Shelter Veterinarians advocate pediatric spays/neuters as does the American Veterinary Medical Association AVMA).
While a typical practicing vet may not support spaying or neutering prior to 5-7 months or older. Early spays and neuters have been proven to be safe. There is no clear consensus—or research—which helps determine the “ideal” timing of spays and neuters.
The Rescue Crew believes that spaying and neutering of pets is the most important part of the effort to reduce the number of unwanted animals and unnecessary euthanasia in this country, and that juvenile, or “early” spays/neuters offers more benefits than risks. The Rescue Crew views spay/neuter as one of the keys to achieving our vision and maintain a 100% spay/neuter philosophy. This means that we do not adopt any pet prior to that animal being altered, unless there is a medical reason prohibiting it.