Why Spaying and Neutering Matters

February is Spay/Neuter Awareness Month, a great reminder to think about spaying and neutering your pets. These routine procedures aren’t just about preventing unplanned litters, they’re one of the simplest ways to help your furry friends live longer, healthier lives and keep shelters from getting overcrowded.

Why Spaying and Neutering Boosts Your Pet’s Health

Spaying and neutering isn’t just about preventing litters, it’s a big win for your pet’s overall health and happiness. Here’s how it helps: 

• Cuts cancer risks: lowers chances of mammary cancer in females and testicular cancer in males 
• Prevents serious infection: including uterine infections (pyometra) that can be life-threatening 
• Calms hormone-driven behaviors: fewer late-night roams, marking, or aggressive tendencies 
• Supports a longer, healthier life: research shows spayed and neutered pets often live fuller, happier lives 

Busting Spay and Neuter Myths 

Let’s set the record straight around spaying and neutering your pet: 

• “My pet will gain weight.” Weight gain is about diet and exercise, not the procedure. 
• “My pet’s personality will change.” Your pet will still be themselves—just a calmer, healthier version! 
• “They should have one litter first.” There’s no medical reason to wait. 
• “It’s unsafe.” Spay and neuter are some of the most common and well-studied veterinary procedures out there. 

How Spaying and Neutering Helps the Bigger Picture 

In addition to benefiting your pet, these routine procedures are key to reducing pet overpopulation and keeping animals safer, healthier, and happier across the region. In 2024, over 18,000 pets entered Fulton and DeKalb County animal shelters, where teams work to prevent animal homelessness, save healthy, treatable animals, and provide pet resources to the community.

When you spay or neuter your pet, you’re making an impact in the community: 

• More pets stay safe in loving homes instead of becoming strays 
• Shelters can focus their care instead of being overcrowded 
• Animal welfare organizations have more resources to help those in need 
• Overall, the pet population becomes healthier and happier 

Spay or Neuter Your Pet 

Add spaying or neutering to your pet’s preventive care plan! If your pet hasn’t had the procedure yet, call (770) 464-2955 to schedule their appointment or to learn how it can benefit their health and well-being.