“Desexing is important to prevent unwanted pregnancies – but it can also save lives,” said Dr Andrew Kapsis, Head Veterinarian of Inpatients at Lort Smith Animal Hospital.

“The risk of mammary cancer in dogs spayed before their first season compared to after two heat cycles jumps from one in two hundred, to one in four.”

“In male dogs desexing eliminates the possibility of testicular cancer and reduces the chance of certain prostate cancers,” added Dr Kapsis.

Lort Smith desexes an average of 160 animals each month. This includes cats, dogs, guinea pigs, rabbits, ferrets and reptiles. While this number is encouraging, Lort Smith constantly receives litters from undesexed animals in the community.

“Lort Smith receives unwanted litters of kittens and puppies throughout the year – especially in the warmer months,” said Serena Horg, General Manager of Lort Smith Adoption Centre.

Over the last few weeks Lort Smith has received quite a number of unwanted litters. This has included several litters each of kittens, puppies and guinea pigs.

One of the recent litters, seven staffy puppies, arrived at Lort Smith needing round the clock care to help them gain weight after their owner was surprised by her dogs’ unexpected pregnancy.

“Animal welfare organisations throughout the country are inundated with unwanted litters. Now is the time to desex to prevent an extra litter, and choose to optimise your pet’s health and wellbeing,” said Ms Horg.

“Also, male dogs and cats are more likely to stray from their homes while looking for a mate, which can sadly result in getting hit by a car. It just makes sense to desex,” added Ms Horg.

National Desexing Month is held every July throughout Australia to encourage pet carers to desex their beloved furry friends before the peak breeding season being in September. A number of vet clinics around Australia, including Lort Smith Animal Hospital will provide special pricing for desexing operations for cats and dogs throughout July. Places are limited and booking are required – 03 9328 3021.

Pic: David Caird for Herald Sun