If your dog was not previously licensed you will need to get an Unaltered Dog Permit. The cost is $50. This provision of the ordinance will become effective April 5, 2007. We strongly recommend that you spay or neuter your dog if you are not a breeder, or involved in other activities that would dissuade you from doing so. If you are in your own yard with your puppy or dog the animals should either be confined in a secure enclosure or accompanied by the owner and under his/her direct control.

Any dog over the age of 7 months must be spayed or neutered. The main reason is that intact dogs are at greater risk of injury from other dogs. In a social environment, intact males are often viewed as threats by other dominant dogs. Intact females, whether in heat or not, may be picked on by other female dogs and male dogs will view her as an intact female and treat her as such.

Neutering dogs varies. Generally, we advise neutering dogs anywhere between six months and one year of age. Please ask us about your pet.

Females, regardless of cat or dog, are spayed while males, again regardless of cat or dog, are neutered.

There has been much controversy over the age of spaying (female) and neutering (male). Generally, as soon as the vaccination series is completed approximately at 4 months of age it is recommended to spay or neuter. It is always recommended to spay/neuter your pet before sexual maturity as this decreases the incidence of mammary cancer, prostate cancer, testicular cancer and many other diseases. Dr.

There are many factors to consider in selecting the correct time to spay or neuter your pet. Most veterinarians will suggest doing it shortly after the completion of puppy vaccines, which is around five months of age. In the case of male pets it may be an especially good idea to neuter them at this time before they develop bad habits, such as aggression.

Spaying a dog or cat before their first heat cycle virtually eliminates the possibility of the pet getting breast cancer. Neutering will limit the possibility of the pet getting testicular cancer and greatly cut down on prostate problems. Spaying and neutering sterilizes the animal and thus reduces unwanted litters. It also may reduce undesirable behaviors such as spraying, marking, straying, aggression towards other animals and mating behaviors.

Yes, to prevent unwanted strays and curb over-population. There are County programs available for free.

Yes, although intact dogs are not permitted be part of the canine playgroups for safety. The only exception is if your female dog is pregnant. We do not accept bitches in any stage of pregnancy. Unborn puppies are particularly sensitive to any diseases, toxic agents or stresses affecting their mother, especially during the first twenty days of gestation.

Spaying or neutering your puppy can not only prevent unwanted pregnancies, but can also prevent some health problems later in life. It is recommended that females be spayed before their first heat cycle (which usually occurs at around 6 months of age). Males should also be neutered in the first 6 months.

A6. Yes, all are spayed or neutered before adoption, unless there is a medical reason not to (cancer, or age). Any puppies too young for the procedure will be adopted out with a stipulation in the adoption contract that it will be done at the proper age. We will do a follow-up with the adopter to be sure this is taken care of. The basic disposition and temperament of your dog WILL NOT be changed by removing his or her reproductive capability.