OVMA Handbooks
Issue link: https://publications.ovma.org/i/1284509
OVMA 420 Bronte Street South, Suite 205, Milton, Ontario L9T 0H9 T. 905.875.0756 or 1.800.670.1702 (toll-free) F. 905.875.0958 or 1.877.482.5941 (toll-free) info@ovma.org www.ovma.org 24 Pet Spay and Neuter P o sitio n Statem ent – OVM A OVMA strongly recommends sterilization of all cats and dogs not intended for breeding, in order to reduce pet overpopulation, as euthanasia is not an acceptable means of population control. Promotion of responsible pet ownership via client education is vital and should include messaging stating that sterilization is part of being a responsible owner. Cats: OVMA supports the use of early spay and neuter programs by animal shelters to sterilize cats before adoption to address cat overpopulation. OVMA strongly supports spay and neuter prior to 5 months of age as the method of sterilization of all non-breeding cats. Dogs: OVMA recognizes that because early spay and neuter could have negative consequences for certain breeds of dogs, the age and methodology (including spay/neuter, vasectomy, hysterectomy, tubal ligation) of sterilization should be individualized by the owner or shelter in consultation with a veterinarian. (April 26, 2017 Board)