Spay/neuter awareness

February is National Spay/Neuter Awareness Month, and Humane Society Silicon Valley (HSSV) has some insight into why spaying and neutering are critical to reducing overpopulation and improving pet health.

In the United States, an estimated 6 to 8 million cats and dogs enter shelters each year. Besides preventing unwanted pregnancies in pets, spaying and neutering can lead to more positive behaviors such as reduced aggression, roaming and urine marking. Neutered male dogs are less likely to bite, attack or get into fights.

Spaying female pets can prevent uterine infections and reduce the risk of breast cancer. Neutering male pets can eliminate the risk of testicular cancer and reduce the risk of prostate disease.

In 2013 the Banfield Pet Hospital State of Pet Health Report concluded that neutered male dogs lived 18% longer and spayed female dogs lived 23% longer. Spayed female cats in the study lived 39% longer, and neutered male cats lived 62% longer.
For more information, visit HSSV.org.

Stanford blood drive

The Milpitas Library is hosting a blood drive with the Stanford Blood Center on Sunday, Feb. 2, 10:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Donors will receive a $10 e-gift card plus a chance to win Coldplay or Shakira tickets.

Schedule an appointment at sbcdonor.org.

Teen Safe Space

The Milpitas Library is hosting a Teen Safe Space on Friday, Feb. 7, 4-5:30 p.m., for in-person LGBTQIA+ support. Allies are welcome.

Teens and young adults can come for games, crafts, discussion and community. No registration is necessary.