section_path: Health/Reproduction/Neutering
section_name: Neutering
paragraph_text: Neutering
  
  Neutering is the sterilization of animals via gonadectomy, which is an orchidectomy (castration) in dogs and ovariohysterectomy (spay) in bitches. Neutering is the most common surgical procedure in dogs less than a year old in the US and is seen as a control method for overpopulation. Neutering often occurs as early as 6–14 weeks in shelters in the US. The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), advise that dogs not intended for further breeding should be neutered, so that they do not have undesired puppies that may later be euthanized. However, the Society for Theriogenology and American College of Theriogenologists take a different view. A joint statement opposes mandatory neutering and says the cause of overpopulation in the US is cultural. Neutering is less common in most European countries, bar the UK where it is common, especially Nordic countries. In Norway neutering is illegal unless for the benefit of the animal's health (e.g. ovariohysterectomy in case of ovarian/uterine neoplasia). Some European countries have similar laws to Norway but their wording either explicitly allows for neutering for controlling reproduction or it is allowed in practice or by contradiction through other laws. A few such as Italy and Portugal have passed recent laws that promote it. Germany forbids early age neutering, but neutering is still allowed at the usual age. In Romania neutering is mandatory except for when a pedigree to select breeds can be shown.
  
  Neutering reduces problems caused by hypersexuality, especially in male dogs. Spayed bitches are less likely to develop cancers affecting the mammary glands, ovaries, and other reproductive organs. However, neutering increases the risk of urinary incontinence in bitches, prostate cancer in dogs, and osteosarcoma, hemangiosarcoma, cruciate ligament rupture, pyometra, obesity, and diabetes mellitus in either sex.