My Dog

Spaying and neutering: yes or no?

SPAYING AND NEUTERING: YES OR NO? We are often asked whether to spay or neuter a dog. You should know that spaying or neutering your dog is an important part of the responsibility you have towards your dog. Not only does it help protect your dog from numerous medical problems, it also helps reduce irresponsible breeding

Published Author: Slaven Stevelić3 min read
SPAYING AND NEUTERING: YES OR NO?
We are often asked whether to spay or neuter a dog. You should know that spaying or neutering your dog is an important part of the responsibility you have towards your dog. Not only does it help protect your dog from numerous medical problems, it also helps reduce irresponsible breeding of dogs. Every day, pets across the country await euthanasia because shelters have no space or resources to care for them. By spaying or neutering your dog, you help stop this tragic problem.
Here is a list of answers to the most common questions about spaying and neutering:
Is the surgery safe?
Yes. It is a routine medical procedure, so if you use the services of experienced vets, you can be sure they have extensive experience with this kind of operation. Whenever an animal is put under anaesthesia there is a certain risk, but your vet will be able to deal with any possible complications.
What can I do to keep my dog safe after the surgery?
Follow the post-operative instructions carefully. If you have any questions, do not hesitate to call your vet.
How old should my dog be for spaying or neutering?
The American Veterinary Medical Association recently approved early neutering, which can be done as early as two months of age, although the average age in our country is still six months. SPAYING AND NEUTERING: YES OR NO?Should I wait for my female to have one litter before spaying?
No. In fact, it is easier for your dog to have the surgery before her first heat, and that way you can significantly reduce the risk of mammary tumours.
How long after giving birth can a dog be spayed?
The procedure can be performed once the puppies are four to five weeks old.
What are some of the health benefits of spaying and neutering?
For females, it reduces the risk of infections, cancer or diseases of the uterus (which is removed during spaying), as well as reducing the risk of mammary cancer. For males, it reduces the risk of testicular cancer and prostate cancer. In addition, it reduces problem behaviours related to mating, such as roaming, marking territory and aggression.Will my dog be given pain relief during the surgery?
Yes. Your dog will not feel any pain during the operation. Dogs are usually given an injection that relieves pain for the next eight to twelve hours after the surgery. You may also be given medication to administer at home. Never give human painkillers, as many of them can be toxic to your dog.
Will my dog gain weight after the surgery?
No, that is a myth. Just like people, dogs gain weight if they eat too much or do not exercise enough. Give your dogs regular walks and healthy meals, and they will stay in shape!Will my guard dog stop protecting me?
No. If your dog is trained to be a guard dog, it will still be able to protect you after the surgery.

The best source of information on questions about spaying and neutering is your vet.

Comments

No comments yet. Be the first.