February is National Spay/Neuter Month
By Nancy G. Nichols
CAHS Board Member
For several years, the last Tuesday of February has been designated as “Spay Day USA” and February is “Spay and Neuter Month,” recognized by many national and local animal advocacy groups. There are many ways to contribute to this effort, starting with spaying and neutering your pets.
It’s difficult to believe that in this day and age, many people still don’t know about the value of spaying and neutering their pets.
Some of the benefits as a result of spay and neuter includes: Promote good health, reduce potential behavior problems and help prevent overpopulation.
Did you know that one unaltered cat or dog has the potential to produce 400 puppies or kittens in his or her lifetime? In addition to reducing the numbers of homeless and unwanted animals turned into shelters, spaying or neutering your pet can reduce the risks of several cancers. For more information, please visit the following link: bowie.patch.com.
On another note, have you ever wondered how you’d care for your pet in the event of a medical emergency? A three-hour class, “Dog First Aid,” is being offered on Saturday, Feb. 9, from 9 a.m. to noon at the Presque Isle Inn & Convention Center — hosted jointly by the American Red Cross and the Central Aroostook Kennel Club. Learn how to administer medicine; manage breathing and cardiac emergencies; treat wounds and shock; care for eye, foot, ear injuries; and also prepare for disasters. Cost is $20 for the course, with Red Cross books and first-aid kits available for an additional charge. FMI contact Lisa Obstfeld at 764-7651 or e-mail dogsnglass@hotmail.com.
