Neutering can make a dog’s life healthier, even if it is less romantic

I WAS very pleased to see you included information on the Dogs Trust-subsidised neutering scheme for people on means tested benefits in your pets series (Irish Examiner, July 12/13).

However, while reading the feature I came across a comment from your pet expert, Ger Philpott, in response to a reader who was wondering whether neutering his three-year-old Labrador cross would help him become less aggressive with other dogs.

Mr Philpott responded that he wasn’t a fan of neutering animals.

I was very surprised to learn that your expert doesn’t advocate neutering animals as there are so many benefits attributed to this simple, painless procedure.

It has been found that neutering can help protect against womb cancer in bitches and testicular cancer in males.

In addition, a bitch spayed will put an end to packs of dogs following her around in season and it can stop male dogs from developing unwanted behaviours such as marking territory, fighting with other dogs, sexual aggression and wandering off looking for romance.

But most importantly, neutering helps control the number of unwanted litters of puppies.

Anyone interested in finding out more about the benefits of neutering, or our subsidised dog-neutering campaign for people in receipt of means tested benefits, is welcome to contact me on 01- 2109426.

Iris Denieffe

Campaigns Manager

Dogs Trust

Suite 4

Unit 12

Priory Hall

Stillorgan

Co Dublin