Question

Do I have to spay and neuter my dog before him leaving the shelter?

Answer

Some localities have laws that require shelters to spay/neuter animals before they are adopted and/or returned to their “parents.” Also, some localities have laws which provide that dogs and cats over a certain age (usually 4-6 months) must be spayed or neutered unless the animal’s “parent” has a breeder’s license or unaltered animal permit. These laws contain limited exceptions, such as when a veterinarian certifies that the procedure would jeopardize the animal’s health. Spaying/neutering help to curtail the overpopulation of dogs and cats and can also provide health benefits.

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