Answer

1. 

   253

   

   5-26-11

   Andy Warycka says:

   

   Pet population pointers

   So you need to have your new pet spayed/neutered? Don’t have a lot of cash? No problem. Get some rubber bands, a sharp knife, a bottle of rubbing alcohol…

   STOP. I’m kidding. Put the rubber bands away.

   Which is which?

   First, the terminology. Spaying is for female cats and dogs, and is essentially a hysterectomy (removal of the ovaries and uterus — technically an ovariohysterectomy). Male dogs and cats get neutered — really castrated — meaning that their testicles are removed. {cringe}

   While you should of course consult with your own pet’s vet or clinic, but the most current advice from spayusa.org says that kittens and puppies can be spayed or neutered as early as two months of age (and as long as they weigh at least two pounds). After two months, the rule seems to be the earlier the better. The surgery is smoother, the recovery is faster, and the health benefits to your pet are greater. Bonus for humans: No boy dog spraying!

   Where to go

   For starters, check out the ASPCA’s Low Cost Spay/Neuter finder. Just drop in your zip code and see what’s nearby. They use a handy Google Maps interface, which will show you locations and gives clickable links to clinic websites.

   There’s also a great list over at lovethatcat.com of free and low-cost spay and neuter clinics. (Bear in mind that many free services are only offered to low-income pet owners, but there are many inexpensive alternatives.)

   There’s also a comprehensive list at Spay USA, including low-income and mobile clinics that come to you if you have a hard time getting to them.

   So, as Bob Barker would say, “Help control the pet population — have your pet spayed or neutered!”

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