February is designated as National Spay and Neuter month.   Across the nation, stories abound concerning dogs and cats starving, being abandoned or surrendered to animal shelters for “someone” else to take care of. 

In the past if someone had said to me that they don’t need to spay or neuter their barn cat because they could always find homes for the kittens I would just say “nothing”.  Well enough is enough – it is the property owner’s responsiblility to spay or neuter any dog or cat on their property.  Several counties offer free, by donation or low cost certificates to spay/neuter a pet.  I have seen first hand what happens with the off-spring of “Farm Cats”.  Being the recipient of 3 barn cats within the last 3 years I have spent countless dollars to make sure that the cats are neutered, vaccinated and healthy.  These unwanted animals have become members of our family in a not so desirable place.  I am not saying that we live in a bad neighborhood or on a highway just the opposite.  We live in the country and go to sleep everynight with the howling of the coyotes.  Farm life can be a good life but also a short life. 

Please spay or neuter your pet.  If you are not sure of the steps contact your local town or county animal control officer and they will be glad to point you in the proper direction for resources.  Stay informed.  Just today I posted an article onto one of the Humane Society Websites that was titled “60 seconds and gone”.  It has to do with a “bill” on the house floor in New York. This was appropriate because any animal brought into a shelter would have exactly that amount of time to live before it was euthanized.  Remember, they can not speak for themselves.  We can curb the problem through spay and neuter programs.  Stand up today and lets put an end to unwanted animals.