The overpopulation of dogs in many parts of the world has produced campaigns for responsible neutering. In addition, neutering is often recommended so as to eliminate the risk of hormone-driven diseases. Both of these are driving some veterinarians to adopt neutering procedures that are less invasive than the traditional practice of organ removal (of the ovaries and uterus of female dogs and the testicles of male dogs). As in human beings, sterilization can be accomplished in dogs via vasectomy (for males) and tubal ligation (for females).

Early neutering (before first heat) is advised because doing so has been proven to protect animals against mammary tumors.

Overpopulation

United States:

In the U.S., The Humane Society estimates 6-8 million animals enter shelters each year, and that roughly half of them are destroyed as there are no other alternatives for the current state of overpopulation nationwide. The only long term solution is conscientious sterilization of dogs and cats combined with a national effort to adopt shelter pets.