An estimated 70,000 puppies and kittens are born in the United States daily, or 30 million each year. According to statistics, four to six million of these adoptable animals must be euthanized, as the reported 10 million animals at pet shelters far outnumber that of potential homes.

Additionally, BJC animal control officers often deal with irresponsible breeding, which contributes to the problems of dog bites and attacks on other people and animals. Over-breeding causes many community problems, yet the animals themselves cannot be held accountable.

It is then people who carry the burden and must take responsibility in lowering these staggering and unfortunate numbers. A responsible community teaches each individual the meaning of responsible pet ownership by ensuring dogs and cats are sterilized to prevent the birth of more homeless animals. Spaying and neutering animals is a must! If there is not a veterinary clinic convenient to you, Alabama Spay Neuter Clinic in Irondale, AL can assist you. You can call them for more details at 205-956-0012.

Veterinarians recommend that animals be spayed between four to six months of age; however older pets can be safely sterilized as well. Although BJC does not provide spay and neuter services on site, each and every pet adopted from BJC is spayed/neutered prior to going home with their new owner.

If you have any additional questions on spaying or neutering your pet, please contact BJC Animal Control Services at 205.591.6522.