Spay/Neutering saves lives

Spay/Neuter Community Impact – Pet Over Population is a Killer

 During 2020, Lowndes County impounded 3,164 dogs and cats.

  - 52% (1,651) were strays

  - 36% (1,147) were turned in by owners

  - 12% (366) were impounded with known owners

71% of impounded animals left alive:

  - 33% (700) were Adopted

  - 46% (977) left through Rescue efforts 

  - 13% (285) were Reclaimed by owners

  -  8% (158) were Trapped/Neutered/Released as Community Cats

 29% were euthanized:

  - 65% had contagious diseases/illnesses or were badly injured

  - 35% had behavioral issues related to aggression or destructive nature 

In comparison, during 2009 Lowndes County impounded 8,409 dogs and cats:

5,245 more cats and dogs than impounded in 2020

  - 30% (2,525) were strays

  - 58% (4,893) were turned in by owners

  - 12% (991) were impounded with known owners

20% of impounded animals left alive:

  - 14% (1,154) were Adopted or rescued

  -  6% (481) were Reclaimed by owners    

80% were euthanized.

  - 62% (4,187) had contagious diseases/illnesses, died or were badly injured

  - 38% (2,587) had behavioral issues related to aggression or destructive nature 

While the current intake numbers seem overwhelming, they represent a steady increase in the number of animals in Lowndes County which have been spay or neutered over the last ten years. This change has greatly reduced the overall animal population. Our community can do better. Please don’t LITTER - spay/neuter your pets at four months of age. Manage feral cats in your community through Trap / Spay or Neuter/ Release programs.

Want to have a positive impact on the pet population in Lowndes County AND improve the health of your pet? Choose spay/neuter.

Benefits of Spaying (females):

  - No heat cycles, therefore males will not be attracted

  - Less desire to roam

  - Risk of mammary gland tumors, ovarian and/or uterine cancer is reduced or eliminated,    especially if done before the first heat cycle

  - Reduces number of unwanted cats/kittens/dogs/puppies

  - Helps dogs and cats live longer, healthier lives

Benefits of Neutering (males): 

  - Reduces or eliminates risk of spraying and marking

  - Less desire to roam, therefore less likely to be injured in fights or auto accidents

  - Risk of testicular cancer is eliminated, and decreases incidence of prostate disease

  - Reduces number of unwanted cats/kittens/dogs/puppies

  - Decreases aggressive behavior, including dog bites

  - Helps dogs and cats live longer, healthier lives

For more information regarding local low cost spay/neuter programs, contact the Humane Society of Valdosta-Lowndes County, 229-247-3266, or contact your veterinarian.