Whether you just welcomed a new puppy or adopted an older dog, one of the first questions that come to mind is whether you should get your dog spayed or neutered. With the advantages and side effects to consider, questions such as ‘when’ and ‘exactly how’ follow right up.
Keep on reading to find everything you need about getting your doggo spayed or neutered!
Getting the terms right
Spaying is the removal of the female dog’s ovaries, and sometimes uterus, under general anaesthesia whereas neutering is usually a simpler surgery and involves the removal of a male dog’s testes. Sterilisation, on the other hand, only has the contraceptive aim, thus, neither affects the dog’s hormonal balance nor changes the bodily functions or behaviour.
Advantages of spaying/neutering your doggo
Neutering and spaying are often linked with the protection against certain types of cancer linked to sexual hormones such as mammary tumours and testicular cancer. The risks of breast cancer and diabetes are also reduced after the procedure. Moreover, most dog owners report a significant decrease in aggressive sexual behavior and stress with heat symptoms after the spaying/neutering process. Since the sexual cycles related to hormones will not take place anymore, processes such as bloody discharge or false pregnancy will be avoided overall and taking care of your dog might become easier if you experience such instances often. Lastly, if you do not plan to breed your dog in the future, prevention of unplanned puppies is a direct result of spaying/neutering.
Things to keep in mind
Research shows that spaying/neutering have increased Golden Retrievers’ likelihood to develop joint problems or certain types of cancer including bone cancer. Obesity, as a result of less of activity and increased appetite after the procedure, is also seen in many neutered dogs. Furthermore, if the aggressive behavior of your dog is linked to conditions other than the hormones, the operation might not help with overcoming that. You can explore the other causes of stress in dogs.
Finding the right time
The procedure can be performed as early as the puppy’s first few months; however, research points out the possible long-term health benefits occur with spraying/neutering after puberty. In order to effectively reduce the risk of cancer in females, spaying before the dog first comes into heat is much recommended. All in all, it is best to consult your veterinarian to decide on the best time for your furry friend depending on the unique health condition.
Just before and after the procedure
Keep in mind that your dog should go into the operation with an empty stomach, so make sure your doggo stops eating 12 hours prior to the operation with increased water intake. The procedure usually takes 20 to 90 minutes under general anesthesia. After your dog wakes up from the procedure in an hour or two, you can go home right away and come back for a follow-up the next day.
Especially for the first two days, you should be by your fluff ball’s side at most times giving much love and care. The stitches are removed after around 14 days and it is crucial to avoid pressure on the wound for a painless healing process. A vest covering the stomach is also recommended to prevent your dog from licking the wound. In the next couple of weeks, make sure your fluff ball avoids long walks, climbing stairs or big jumps. If you decide to have a PawsApp walk during the healing process, our licensed dog carers will pay attention to all these special conditions to make the most enjoyable walk for your precious doggo! Lastly, your dog might need pain killer medication, don’t forget to consult your veterinarian about getting some.
Keeping both the positive outcomes and possible side effects in mind, consulting your veterinarian is always the best since every doggo is unique and the process truly depends on their breed and particular features like weight, size and social behavior. Decide what’s best for your cute fluff ball and take the best care! If you have just welcomed a puppy, check out the 5 essential things to do including finding the right veterinarian to consult on these crucial topics!