February is World Spay Month, a time to raise awareness about the life-saving impact of spaying and neutering pets. Whether you're a new pet guardian or an experienced one, understanding why these procedures matter can make a powerful difference for your pet, your community, and animal welfare across Canada.
At the Humane Society of Greater Niagara (HSGN), our mission includes offering high-quality, low-cost spay and neuter surgeries to help reduce pet overpopulation and keep animals healthy and happy. If your pet hasn’t yet been altered, we encourage you to learn more and book an appointment today.
World Spay Month is observed every February, culminating in World Spay Day on the last Tuesday of the month. The global initiative began as Spay Day USA from Doris Day in 1995 and has grown into a worldwide call to action to reduce companion animal overpopulation and prevent unnecessary suffering.
This annual recognition is more than just a date on the calendar, it’s a reminder that one simple procedure can save countless lives. By reducing the number of unwanted litters, we can significantly lower the number of homeless cats and dogs entering shelters each year.
Spaying and neutering provide proven health advantages:
These benefits improve your pet’s lifespan and quality of life.
Surgery can also help modulate behaviours that result from hormones:
Preventing these behaviours not only makes life easier for you as an owner but also reduces risks like, fights with other animals, and escape attempts.
One of the most compelling arguments for spay/neuter is what it does beyond the individual pet. In Canada alone:
These staggering numbers make it clear: altering pets isn’t just responsible, it’s a critical part of humane animal care.
The Canadian Veterinary Medical Association (CVMA) strongly supports spaying and neutering cats and dogs not intended for breeding. The procedure is recognized as safe, effective, and an essential part of responsible pet ownership.
Canadian veterinarians are your best source for personalized guidance on the right age and timing for surgery. For most cats and dogs, this often occurs before sexual maturity, unless there’s a planned breeding purpose.
We know cost and access can be barriers for some pet owners. That’s why organizations like HSGN and local humane societies are stepping up to provide low-cost clinics, outreach programs, and community support. Affordable spay/neuter options help ensure budget does not stand between pets and life-saving care.
If you’re unsure where to start, talk with your veterinarian or reach out to the Humane Society of Greater Niagara Clinic to learn more information.
World Spay Month is the perfect time to:
Your choice to spay or neuter doesn’t just protect your pet, it helps reduce shelter overcrowding, prevents the heartache of euthanasia, and makes our communities safer and healthier for all animals.
Learn more about how the Humane Society of Greater Niagara can help your pet on our website, or contact us at 905-682-0767.