The castration problem: a review of Western countries

Many citizens uphold the right to spay or neuter their pet at their discretion, but some pet owners may have that option taken away from them. In some English-speaking countries, the problem of pet overpopulation is so severe that several governments are talking about restricting pet breeding to registered breeders only. In others, castration is almost never performed. Why is the procedure so promoted in some countries and vilified in others? Let’s look at some of the views on sterilization around the world.

USA

In the US, more than 3 million pets are euthanized each year due to homelessness. Puppy mills are unregulated in most states and produce genetically deficient puppies that often have serious health problems. For the most part, there is no legislation requiring pet sterilization, but California is discussing it right now. At a minimum, all animals adopted from shelters have a mandatory castration clause. Some breeders also sell puppies at a discount price if the owner signs a spay/neuter contract that requires them to spay or neuter the pet after which they receive the papers (in the case of purebred animals). Spaying is a regular procedure in the United States, and most veterinarians support it as a good way to stop reproductive urges that lead to behaviors like mark and run, not to mention unwanted puppies or kittens. Opinion about neutralizing debate is very similar in Canada to that in the United States.

Europe

In Europe, pets are spayed much less frequently than in the US Breeding is more controlled and the problem of pet overpopulation does not exist to the extent that it does in the US In Europe, Scandinavian countries are the most opposed to neutering, and many veterinarians refuse to provide the service unless it is medically necessary for the health of the dog. In fact, these countries often have the reverse side of an American castration contract. Breeders often require buyers to sign a contract agreeing to keep the entire pet and allowing the breeder to use the dog to produce a litter if they choose. In general, the reproductive processes of pets are considered natural rather than destructive.

Australia

In Australia, the neutralizing debate takes on a new perspective with the issue of invasive species. The introduction of the domestic cat into the Australian ecosystem has been destructive, especially to local birds. Some studies even claim that 33% of wildlife deaths are due to cats. Whether this is valid or not, it has caused many Australians to get rid of feral cats and castrate their own animals. Legislation is even being considered to neuter all cats except those belonging to registered breeders. In Australia, neutering isn’t just about pet overpopulation; it’s also about the environment.

Of course, this is only a small portion of the world. But the Western world at least has similar thoughts about the role of a pet in our lives, while many other parts of the world think differently. Wherever you live, you have to carefully consider what you think is best for your pet, to be neutered or to remain whole. At the end of the day, neutered or whole, your dog or cat’s love for you will remain the same.