STATISTICS reveal that in the US almost 8 million dogs and cats are euthanized annually because there are no homes for them.

In seven years, one female cat and its young can produce 420,000 kittens and 70,000 puppies and kittens are born every day. In England a single female cat can be responsible for 20,000 offspring and in Ireland approximately 25,000 to 30,000 dogs are destroyed each year because of overpopulation. Staggering facts, but sadly true.

Amongst the "so-called" pet-loving nations of the world, myths and excuses deter people from having their pets sterilized, and yet their blind ignorance has lead to the destruction of millions of man's best friends.

There are many reasons for neutering pets, and recent campaigning to educate pet owners about the positive outcomes of neutering has finally taken effect. Many people in Europe are realizing that sterilization not only keeps the pet population manageable, but also makes pets better and more affectionate companions, often improving temperament and lessening the tendency to roam and get into fights. Dogs are less likely to bite, and contrary to belief, are not likely to put on weight if kept on a healthy diet.

One of the greatest myths is that neutering one's pet removes their identity and personality, but nothing could be further from the truth. Men, in particular, have abhorred the idea of castrating their dogs, as if it were some kind of crime against male dominance.

However, pets do not have a concept of sexual identity or ego, so neutering will not change their personality or cause them to suffer emotional reactions or an identity crisis. In fact, spaying and neutering helps cats and dogs live longer and healthier lives, eliminating cancers of the reproductive organs which can be very difficult and costly to treat.