This year, World Spay Day falls on the 27th of February 2024, and already, thousands of animals are being selected for the life-changing procedures.
South Africa (20 February 2024) – This time next week, thousands of animals around South Africa will be undergoing minor procedures in the name of World Spay Day.
World Spay Day was originally founded in the USA by the Doris Day Animal Foundation but has since gone on to be adopted internationally. It takes place on the last Tuesday of February each year; this year, that is the 27th of February 2024.
The act of spaying and neutering animals is done to control populations of animals. Sadly, it is a global issue of animals having multiple litters of kittens or puppies and just not enough homes to take in the animals as pets. This means many animals end up on the streets or, worse, being euthanised.
According to the Cape of Good Hope SPCA, spaying and neutering pets has many health benefits aside from population control.
“The benefits of sterilisation go beyond population control. Spaying female pets can help prevent several health issues, including uterine infections and breast cancer, which is fatal in around 50% of dogs and 90% of cats.”
Neutering male pets can reduce the risk of testicular cancer, and prevent behavioural problems such as aggression and roaming, which can lead to injuries, accidents, and even death.” – Cape of Good Hope SPCA.
It is every pet owner’s responsibility to make sure their animals are spayed or neutered. However, it is understandable that in South Africa where money is very tight, this option may not be affordable. There are hundreds of organisations that exist to help families care for their pets.
Each year, many of these organisations host Spay Days to help get animals fixed. But mostly, they do these days throughout the year. Local SPCA and Animal Anti-Cruelty Leagues also offer discounted operations to help families in need.
The National Sterilisation Project helps fund spay days around South Africa with a big focus on rural communities where access to veterinary care is limited.
The ways we can help is to sponsor towards the success of these spay days. One can donate to cover the cost of a spay or donate blankets, food, leads and leashes, and whatever else is needed to keep animals warm, fed and safe on the day – or best yet, volunteer your time.
Looking for an animal welfare charity to support in your area, you can find our animal welfare charity list here.
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