When a dog is fixed, it means that they are spayed or neutered. Spayed is when a female dog can’t have puppies, and neutered is when a male dog can’t make puppies. There are several advantages to having your dog fixed.

There are health benefits, as dogs who are fixed can live longer and have a lower chance of developing certain cancers. In female dogs, there is less risk of uterine infections.

Getting your dog fixed can also save you money by avoiding the cost of puppies, as well as costs associated with potential pregnancy and delivery complications.

Dogs that are spayed or neutered generally have lower aggression, are more calm, and don’t roam as far from home. This has implications in the community as well; if most dogs within a community are fixed, you will see less free-roaming dog populations. This means a decreased spread of disease, less dog bites, and overall safer communities.

If female dogs within a community are not fixed, it can contribute to puppy overpopulation. One female dog can have two litters of puppies per year. The average number of puppies per litter is 6-10. That is 20 extra puppies in the community per year for one female dog! Besides not being able to get pregnant, a female dog that is spayed will not go into heat and will not attract packs of male dogs around your home.

Overall, fixing your dog is a responsible choice that benefits your pet, your wallet, and your entire community. Talk to your vet about getting your pet spayed or neutered!