Question

Do I have to get my dog fixed? Is it a law? What if I don’t want to?

Answer

Spaying and neutering help to control the overpopulation of animals and can provide health benefits. Many municipalities in California (and elsewhere) have enacted ordinances which require dogs and cats over the age of four or six months to be spayed or neutered. Exemptions are generally provided if a veterinarian certifies that the procedure would jeopardize the animal’s health or the animal’s “parent” has a breeding or unaltered animal permit. Failure to comply with the law may result in fines. Check with your local town/city clerk or attorney for the law in your municipality.

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