So what's the big deal? Why should I alter my pit bull?
The most important reason to spay and neuter pit bulls is because of the terrible over population of these dogs are facing. Dogs are being killed in shelters all across the nation simply because they are Pit Bulls. It is estimated that in the greater Los Angeles area, two hundred dogs a day, every single day, are being put down. There are over 750 runs in the Chicago Dog Pound and at any given time 1/3 to 1/2 of these dogs are Pit Bulls. No Pit bulls or Rottweiler's are adopted out of this pound. All are put down, without a chance.
Young dogs, old dogs, puppies, healthy dogs – it makes no difference - they all die. This is the same story throughout this state, surrounding states, and all across the nation. They are given a death sentence simply because they are Pit Bulls.
Even if this terrible problem of overpopulation did not exist, no dogs of uncertain background should ever be bred. Only dogs of known parentage for at least three generations back should be bred. It's also important to consider things like health testing and titling the dogs that are to be bred. After all things considered, any breeding should be to improve the breed, not just to make a fast buck.
The benefits of spaying and neutering are well documented. Altering males and females reduces the risk of certain types of cancers and infections, especially if it is performed prior to the first heat in females and before puberty in males.
Altered males live happier, more peaceful lives. Intact males can smell females in heat miles away. They are in constant state of frustration when triggered by their sexual hormones but not able to do anything about it, which agitates them and makes them more likely to bite.
Unaltered males are more likely to fight with other dogs, especially other unaltered males. With a breed that is genetically programmed to be dog aggressive, neutering your male is one way to try to reduce the amount of dog aggression that they may display.
Altered dogs are easier to control and less aggressive with people. The majority of dog bites are made by intact males. No fatal dog attack involving an altered dog was ever reported. It goes without saying that this is a scenario that everyone would want to avoid. Any negative press or incident jeopardizes the rights of all pit bull owners.
This is just one of the things we hope to discuss at the rally. We hope to see you there!