Why Should I Neuter My Labrador?
It is the policy of SCLRR to require the neutering of all dogs we handle prior to placement in a new home. Because most of these dogs have unknown backgrounds or are themselves from untested parents, they do not make suitable breeding stock. In this way we can assure ourselves that the dogs we rescue do not themselves produce a new generation for us to rescue.
Breeding dogs is a time consuming, expensive process. It is not a good money making venture as you will lose plenty of money in time preparing for the litter, whelping it, and caring for the puppies. You will spend a good deal of time screening and interviewing potential homes for the puppies so that you are reasonably sure the pup will have a good home for the rest of its life. There's not much to be made in all of this. Suppose you try to save money? Well, if you cut out the health tests that you have done on your female, you'll save some money. But you'll lose it later if one of the puppy buyers comes back and sues you for a problem the puppy has that could have been avoided had you had the tests done. Suppose you cut back on the care of the puppies. Then they will fail to thrive and if they don't die, they won't be particularly healthy either. OK, suppose you just sell them on a first come first served basis? Do you really want to chance those puppies going into abusive homes? Or into homes that don't really want them and dump them somewhere a few weeks later out in the country to die or in the shelter to die? Or worse yet, into the hands of an unscrupulous individual who will breed the puppy over and over again to squeeze out whatever profit he can? What if no one wants the puppies? Will you keep them? How will you get rid of them? As you can see there are many considerations that go into breeding. If you are not prepared for any of this, then consider neutering your dog. This involves either spaying your female dog or castrating your male dog. In addition to saving yourself the trouble of dealing with an unwanted litter, your dog will realize many health benefits from neutering. In male dogs, you eliminate the possibility of certain types of cancer, including testicular and prostate cancer. You improve his bond with you, as he is no longer distracted by females or concerned with other male dogs. He will not want to roam nor fight with other males any more. In female dogs, you eliminate the possibility of pyometra, an infection of the uterus. You also reduce the chances of mammarian cancer by substantial percentages, especially the earlier you spay her. You eliminate having male dogs hanging around your place (and possibly getting to her, despite all your precautions!) when she is in season. Neutering, for either sex, is a safe procedure that can be done by any competent veterinarian. For your peace of mind and to help eliminate the tragic problems that result when Labradors are accidently, thoughtlessly, or carelessly bred, please neuter your Labrador. Your dog will thank you, and we will thank you. If the cost of the surgery is a concern, look for low cost clinics that specialize in vaccinations and neuterings. Due to their lower overhead and often donated services, the prices are much lower. |