Minnesota Valley Humane Society

There are many benefits to spaying or neutering your dog or cat. The most obvious is the prevention of unwanted litters and the reduction of pet overpopulation. The Minnesota Valley Humane Society strives to find homes for every homeless animal that is surrendered to us. However, it is a very difficult task as there are more animals than caring homes. But by sterilizing cats and dogs we can reduce the overpopulation problem. In females, the surgery is called a "spay" or ovariohysterectomy and involves removing the ovaries and uterus. In males, the surgery is called a "neuter" or orchiectomy and involves removing the testicles. The surgical risks for healthy animals are very low and animals usually recover completely within a couple of days.

There are also numerous health benefits to sterilizing your pet. Spaying your female dog or cat reduces the risk of mammary tumors, uterine and ovarian cancer. Neutering your male dog or cat prevents testicular tumors and certain diseases of the prostate.

Spaying or neutering your companion animal also can reduce or eliminate certain behavioral problems. Spaying your female cat will prevent the vocalization and urine spraying associated with going into heat. Neutering also reduces urine spraying in male cats. Neutered male dogs will be less likely to roam and less aggressive toward other male dogs.

Sterilizing your dog or cat will not cause a personality change, nor will it cause weight gain. If you have an exuberant, active pet, this will not change with the surgery. With proper feeding and exercise, your companion animal will not become overweight.

The Minnesota Valley Humane Society spays or neuters most animals prior to adoption. We also offer funds to assist those who cannot afford to spay or neuter their pet. Read about out Community Spay/Neuter Fund here.

We are doing our part to end the tragedy of pet overpopulation. We hope you will help us. Please have your dog or cat spayed or neutered and encourage your friends and relatives to do the same.

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