While checking the stats on this site's poll about whether there should be a mandatory spay and neuter law in West Virginia, I was stunned by the results -- 88% (or 2,959 voters) said no, there shouldn't be, while only 12% (or 417) said yes.

I know these are nonscientific polls, but can this be a true reflection? And if so, why?

What are the reasons behind not wanting to get a pet fixed?

Even though I believe our state already has far too many backyard breeders, making some kind of exception for breeders would likely be necessary in order to get any kind of legislation passed. It just seems like something has to be done. People aren't being responsible, and far too many animals are being put down.

I'd love to get some discussion started on this. We don't have a comments feature here yet, but I'll put this on the forum, or you can email me directly at karinfuller@cnpapers.com.