For every pet we spay or neuter, we prevent the birth of 55 unwanted puppies or kittens with no place to call home. Spaying and neutering can reverse the trend in pet homelessness, and there are big advantages for both the pet and pet parent. Many people simply aren't aware, but you can help spread the word - by joining the movement!

Today, 35 percent of dogs and cats in U.S. households are not spayed or neutered. With more than 171 million pets out there, that's about 60 million dogs and cats who can breed or produce millions of puppies and kittens destined for the shelter. The numbers are compelling, but so is our message: spaying and neutering saves pets' lives. It can be done far sooner than most pet parents think - and with advantages they might expect.

Spaying and neutering can:

• Improve your pets’ behavior.
• Spayed and neutered pets are less likely to wander, less likely to “mark” your stuff and get in fewer fights.
• The procedure does not change your pet’s personality. So no, your tough pup won’t lose his guard dog edge and your cat won’t get fat and lazy (well, at least not from the operation).
• Make your pets healthier and help them live longer.
• Spaying and neutering reduces the risk of many cancers and certain infections.
• Give you a happier pet and help you and your pet have a better relationship.
• Because spaying and neutering usually makes pets calmer and more focused on their people, they are more likely to fit into the family and make happier pets.

The bottom line? This simple procedure helps pets live longer, healthier, happier lives.

When to do it? Recent studies have shown that puppies and kittens can safely be spayed or neutered as early as 8 to 10 weeks of age. The American Veterinary Medical Association, University of California Davis University School of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University School of Veterinary Medicine, and many leading humane agencies endorse this “pediatric” spay/neuter. If your veterinarian won't do it at that age, be sure to schedule the procedure before your pet reaches 6 months of age. The sooner you do it, the greater the benefits for your pet. And you'll be doing your part to prevent unplanned litters that can lead to pet homelessness. You can find spay/neuter clinics in your area using our Spay/Neuter Clinic Locator.

P.S. Don’t forget the rabbits! Rabbits reproduce faster than dogs or cats and end up in shelters, where they are rarely adopted.