South Georgia, We have a problem!
Having lived most of my life in a metropolitan area with strict licensing requirements and heavy fees for intact pets, I think I never fully realized the scope of the need for major education efforts about spaying and neutering your pet.
Having lived in South Georgia for almost two years I am constantly bombarded with pleas for homes for unwanted dogs, many pit-bulls or pit-bull mixes. As a trainer I have had to institute a policy of no dogs over six months allowed in class if still intact. I just finished calling potential clients and had to turn away four of six because their dogs, aged eight months to four years, were not fixed. The reasons given range from “I want to let my dog have a litter” to “God meant for my dog to have sex”.
I wish I could take each and every one of them to any of our rural shelters to show them row after of dogs sitting in a cell, waiting to die because no one wants them anymore. It is almost impossible to resist a cute little puppy, but those cute little puppies grow up. Without proper training they chew up shoes, potty in the house, jump on the children. Without proper socialization they may become fearful or aggressive.
PetSense of Albany Georgia is trying to do something to address the problem. They are partnering with local veterinarian Fred Freeland for a free seminar on the importance of spaying and neutering.
Please help spread the word. Urge your neighbors to attend the seminar. Educate yourself on the health risks to intact dogs. Volunteer at a local shelter. Talk to children about this issue for they are the next generation of pet owners.
For more information on the seminar visit https://www.facebook.com/events/100415763473568/.
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