Community Corner

Pet Owners Urged to 'Primp Your Pit' In August

Owners of pit bull terriers are invited to have their dogs spayed or neutered for only $20 during the month of August.

PetSmart Charities and the Humane Society of Tampa Bay are offering pit bull terrier owners a chance to get their dog spayed or neutered for just $20.

Currently, 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, an overwhelming number of the pets that end up in U.S. shelters are pit bull terriers due to owners who fail to get their dogs spayed or neutered, combined with myths and negative publicity, which impact public perceptions of the breed.

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With eight million homeless pets entering U.S. shelters every year, the Humane Society of Tampa Bay 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 49 animal welfare organizations in 24 states can perform 6,248 surgeries on pit bull terriers during the month of August.

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Locally, the Humane Society of Tampa Bay plans to spay/neuter 75 pit bull terriers and pit bull terrier mixes for $20, which includes a free nail trim and colorful bandana. This special rate during the “Primp Your Pit” event applies to all residents of Hillsborough County.

 “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,” said Sherry Silk, executive director of the Humane Society of Tampa Bay.

For pet owners 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 8 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 owners 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. Visit appointment.humanesocietytampa.org or call 813-870-3304.


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