Spaying or neutering your pet is one of the most important steps you can take for their health — and for preventing animal overpopulation.

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Every year in the U.S., 6–8 million homeless animals enter shelters, and tragically, about half are euthanized. Most are not the offspring of “street” animals, but of family pets. Unaltered pets with outdoor access can breed, adding to the problem.

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Spayed and neutered pets also tend to live longer, healthier lives. They have lower risks of certain cancers and are less likely to develop unwanted behaviors such as roaming, marking, or aggression.

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Owning a pet means committing to their care for life. Being a responsible pet owner includes having your pet spayed or neutered.

 

Low Cost Options

Affordable spay and neuter services are limited in our area, but there are some resources:

• Columbia Gorge Humane Society – Offers low-cost spay/neuter vouchers for low-income individuals in The Dalles area. Visit their website for details.

• Pawsitivity Assistance – In some cases, we can help transport cats to a low-cost clinic for those on a limited income. This requires completing and being approved for a low-income application before transport.

• Spay & Save (ASAP) – A program through the Animal Shelter Alliance of Portland that may offer assistance. [Click here for more information.]

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If you have a mother cat with kittens and are willing to let Pawsitivity find homes for the kittens, we will cover the cost of spaying the mother.

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Reference: Humane Society of the US

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