Desexing
There is a great deal of concern about the number of unwanted or unowned animals born each year, and desexing your pet is strongly recommended.
Although the Companion Animals Act does not require compulsory desexing, it establishes a system of registration that provides an incentive for companion animals to be desexed.
The fee for lifetime registration of a desexed animal is only $40 compared to $150 for an ‘entire’ animal.
The benefits of desexing include reducing the likelihood that your dog or cat will stray, reducing fighting and aggression and reducing antisocial behaviour such as spraying to mark territory.
Desexing before six months of age is encouraged, and it is recommended that you talk to your vet about the options.
If you are unable to have your animal desexed because of financial concerns, it is suggested that you talk to your vet or an animal welfare association, as they may be able to assist you.
There is no scientific evidence to show that it is 'better' to allow an animal to have one litter before being desexed. Unless you are a recognised breeder you should seriously consider desexing both female and male animals.
This page last updated 18 November, 2009 11:02 AM
