Maddie's® Shelter Medicine Program at Cornell
Spay/Neuter Information
- No More Homeless Pets
This article defines the problem of surplus pets in the U.S., examines current public policies that address this issue, examines what has been learned from recent studies, (including those of the National Council on Pet Population Study and Policy) and outlines rational non-lethal strategies for pet population control, emphasizing the role of the veterinary practitioner. Topping the list of strategies is accessible targeted Spay/Neuter initiatives! - Pediatric Spay/Neuter
Pediatric spay/neuter is a medically sound practice and is endorsed by the American Veterinary Medical Association and the American Animal Hospital Association. Information about spaying/neutering young puppies and kittens is provided here. - Using Tattoo Ink to Identify Spayed Cats and Dogs
Accurate identification of pets that have been spayed represents a longstanding and sometimes frustrating dilemma. Pets with unknown histories are commonly presented to veterinarians and animal shelters for determination of reproductive status. Evidence of an abdominal incision from previous spay surgery may be lacking, particularly if the animal was spayed at a very young age or if a flank approach was used (a common practice in cats in European countries). In many instances, cats and dogs undergo unnecessary anesthesia and surgery, only to reveal that previous surgery has been performed. This translates into unnecessary trauma for pets, expense for shelters/owners, and frustration for practitioners. For these reasons, we strongly recommend the use of tattoo ink to permanently identify spayed cats and dogs. This is a simple, safe, quick and extremely inexpensive technique! - Pedicle Tie for Cat Spays
This is a time-saving surgical technique that has been safely and successfully used for more than 20 years. In tomcats, the cord is often tied on itself to create a secure ligature to achieve hemostasis. In female cats, the ovarian pedicle can be similarly tied on itself to achieve a secure ligation and hemostasis. - Spaying/Neutering: Why it's medically best for your pet
The facts and myths about spay/neuter are presented here. We welcome you to copy and distribute these fact sheets. - Should we be spaying/neutering young puppies and kittens?
Experts often debate the safety of early age spay/neuter. One popular author suggests that spay neuter could be unsafe http://www.caninesports.com/SpayNeuter.html. A leading veterinary surgeon and researcher, Dr. Lisa Howe of Texas A and M responds. - Spay/Neuter WITHOUT SURGERY?
Is it possible to sterilize pets with out surgery? Learn about exciting research to develop drugs and vaccines to sterilize cats and dogs humanely and safely without the need for surgery!