Spaying not a solution
In view of all the recent dog-bite cases, it might be useful to point out that one commonly cited solution is not a solution at all. The idea that spaying and neutering will reduce the chances of a bite is fictional. A 1997 finding published in the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association showed that less than a third of male dogs showed less aggression after neutering. The Illinois State Veterinary Medical Association wrote: "It is apparent that neutering does not guarantee a reduction in the aggression of dogs."
Keeping your dog on leash reduces the risk of a bite. Obedience training reduces the risk of a bite. Socialization reduces the risk of a bite. Teaching children to safely interact with pets reduces the risk of a bite. Spaying and neutering, while still a good choice, does not reduce the risk of a bite.
SAMANTHA WILLIAMS
Bakersfield
