Animal advocates speak out
To the Editor:

To help promote October as "Adopt a Shelter Dog" month, Ahimsa Haven Animal Rescue (a non-profit, no kill rescue based in Winchendon) is working to raise the public's awareness of the importance of spaying and neutering pets. Every year, 8-12 million companion animals enter this nation's shelters. Pet owners need to realize that they have the power to make a difference in reducing these staggering statistics by spaying and neutering their pets. Unfortunately, because of a lack of responsibility and misguided beliefs about spaying and neutering, far too many pets are continuing to multiply, creating thousands of puppies and kittens. These unwanted animals either die painful deaths on the streets or end up in overburdened community animal shelters.

The facts are, spayed and neutered pets are usually healthier, better behaved and live on the average of two to three years longer than unsterilized pets.

Specific benefits for pets include:

1) Reduced risk to some forms of cancer and other medical conditions 2) Elimination of many types of objectionable behavior

3) Reduction of urine odors and spraying

4) Elimination of bleeding which occurs during the heat period

5) A calmer, more people oriented pet

For more information on the importance of spaying and neutering, to find out about low cost spay/neuter programs in our area, or to find out how to help with some of the animals looking for a home in our area, please visit www.ahimsahaven.org.

Marjorie Twiraga Adoption Coordinator Ahimsa Haven Animal Rescue