The U.S. Postal Service last year issued a pair of 37-cent stamps that emphasized the importance of neutering or spaying family dogs and cats.

Neutering and spaying can lead to better health and longer lives for pets. Neutered male dogs and cats have a decreased chance of developing prostate disease and also are less likely to stray from home. For female cats and dogs, spaying decreases the rate of breast cancer and eliminates nervous behavior associated with the heat cycle.

The two stamps depict a kitten and a puppy. The Postal Service commissioned photographer Sally Andersen-Bruce to prepare the design. She visited several no-kill shelters near her home in Connecticut before choosing a mixed-breed kitten and a mixed-breed puppy.

Adding to the fun of the day at the shelter, a little girl was looking for a pet. She watched the picture-taking session and adopted the kitten on the spot. Another quick adoption occurred when a family who already had a 10-year-old golden retriever fell in love with and took home the puppy.

The pair of attached stamps are still available from the Postal Service while supplies last, by calling (800) STAMP-24. A first-day set of four is $3.