The combination of too many dogs and cats and not enough homes
results in extreme pet overpopulation in our community. In 2005, 26,354 pets
were impounded by Bakersfield and Kern County Animal Control. Of these,
21,083 were euthanized, a heartbreaking 80%. No matter how hard we try to
adopt out these excess dogs and cats, there will never be enough loving,
responsible homes, and most will die. The only way to insure a home for
every adoptable pet is to greatly reduce the birth rate which, in a fairly
short time, will reduce the number of excess dogs and cats.

Other communities have used widespread spay/neuter to solve this problem.
We can do the same here. In 2006, ALPHA, with generous help from other groups
and individuals, sponsored two free spay/neuter days for dogs belonging
to low income citizens. More than 200 dogs were spayed or neutered.

ALPHA also has a voucher program to help low income or senior citizens
spay/neuter their dogs. Surgeries are done by the veterinarian of their
choice. We even provide transportation to the veterinary hospital if
the owner has no transportation.

Spaying or neutering a dog or cat is the responsible thing to do. But there
are other benefits: altering stops the heat cycle, reduces the urge to roam,
stops the visits from hopeful suitors , and protects the pet from some cancers
and other illnesses. A healthy dog or cat makes a much better companion.