Kent Animal Shelter Urges Pit Bull Owners to Prevent Unwanted Litters during August Primp Your Pit

July 16, 2013 - PRLog -- Today, 35 percent of dogs and cats in U.S. households are not spayed or neutered, yet the procedure is one of the most effective ways to reduce the homeless pet population. Unfortunately, pit bulls end up in shelters in large numbers due to myths and negative publicity, which impact public perceptions of the breed.

With 8 million homeless pets entering U.S. shelters every year, Kent Animal Shelter is helping to solve this problem by participating in PetSmart Charities®’ “Primp Your Pit ” August spay/neuter campaign. This year, PetSmart Charities is providing more than $394,000 in funding so that 49 animal welfare organizations in 24 states can perform 6,248 surgeries on pit bull terriers during the month of August.

Locally, Kent Animal Shelter plans to spay and neuter 140 pit bull terriers and pit bull terrier mixes, (up from the 120 they did last year), for the special $20 rate, which includes a free nail trim. This special rate during the “Primp Your Pit” event applies to all residents of Long Island, N.Y.

“Spaying/neutering a pet is the most effective thing a pet parent can do to prevent unwanted litters from being born that will ultimately end up in local shelters,” says Pam Green the Executive Director of Kent Animal Shelter.

For pet parents who may be hesitant to get their young puppies sterilized, it’s important to note that the American Veterinary Medical Association endorses spaying and neutering puppies as young as eight to 10 weeks old. Research shows that the procedure may improve the behavior and health of the pet, including reducing the risk of certain reproductive cancers and infections.

Pit bull parents who wish to take advantage of this special offer must mention the “Primp Your Pit” promotion when they schedule their appointments. The promotion is based on availability. Please visit www.KentAnimalShelter.com or call (631) 727-5731 for more information or to schedule an appointment.

For press inquiries or to set up an interview with Pam Green, Executive Director of Kent Animal Shelter, contact Nancy Hassel at Nancy@LongIslandPetProfessionals.com or call (631) 446-1105.