February Spay and Neuter Awareness Month

Spay and Neuter Awareness Month

This February, let’s bring awareness to the importance of spaying and neutering our pets to live longer and healthier lives.

What is Spay and Neuter?

Spaying is the procedure used for female pets, and neutering is the procedure used for male pets. It is the sterilization procedure to remove some reproductive organs. Every year, the overpopulation of dogs and cats in Jemez appears to increase; this has caused community members to develop fear, preventing many from walking, biking, or even going outside with their families.

Having your pet spayed or neutered, you will do your part to reduce the pet population and promote a healthier and longer life for your pet. Some health benefits include preventing the risk of pet pregnancies, which can have serious health consequences, and preventing pets from developing uterine infections and cancers. Other benefits include addressing pet behavioral problems such as those experienced during heat, such as crying, pacing, and roaming. It can also reduce pet aggression, which decreases fights, bites, and other injuries between pets and humans. Lastly, it can reduce frequent urine markings and the urge to roam freely.

The American Veterinary Medical Association recommends spaying and neutering your pets between 2 and 5 months old. The earlier, the better. Speak to your veterinarian if you have any questions on whether spaying or neutering is a good option for your pet. 

The Jemez Public Health Program hosts a spay and neuter clinic at least once a year, free of cost to pets living in Jemez. During the spay and neuter clinic, you will receive a free consultation by the vets, a spay/neuter procedure, a rabies vaccine, medication provided for your pet to take home, a leash, and a flea or tick collar. The next spay and neuter clinic will occur in Spring or early Summer. To register, keep an eye out for the flyers posted in the community.

For more information contact Jemez Public Health at (575)-834-7207.