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DOG SPAY & NEUTER TIPS

Dog and Puppy Spay
Dog and Puppy Neuter
Dog Spay & Neuter Guide
Benefits of spaying & neutering dogs
Tips for spay and neuter recovery
Typical costs of spaying or neutering a dog
The best time to spay & neuter a dog
What is the difference between spay and neuter?
Ways to keep a dog busy after spaying & neutering
Dog Spay and Neuter - The Recovery
How to prepare your dog for spay / neuter
Dog Spay and Neuter Misconceptions
Dog Spay & Neuter Tips
Dog Spay & Neuter Cone
Dog Sterilization




"Neutering" is the procedure to remove testicles from a male (castration), and ovaries from a female (spay).

Spaying and neutering can benefit your dog's long-term health and reduce pet overpopulation in shelters.

These surgical procedures can also help decrease unwanted behaviors like urine marking and roaming.

Veterinarians recommend spaying or neutering your dog when they are 6 to 15 months old, depending on their breed.




DOG SPAY & NEUTER TIPS
DOG SPAY & NEUTER:
THE BASICS

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Benefits of spaying

and neutering dogs


Neutering your dog has many benefits beyond population control, it reduces the risk of certain cancers and diseases, and has positive behavioral benefits, such as reduced marking and aggression. Spaying and neutering can lead to a number of health benefits for your pup, including a longer lifespan. In fact, the life expectancy of neutered male dogs is 13.8% longer than that of unneutered dogs, and the life expectancy of spayed female dogs is 26.3% longer than that of their unspayed counterparts.

For many pet owners, those extra years are well worth the small hassle of the spaying or neutering procedure. Why do neutered and spayed dogs live longer than those that are not? For one spayed / neutered Dogs are less likely to develop diseases affecting the reproductive system, like uterine infections and cancer, breast cancer, testicular cancer, and prostate issues. Some of these illnesses can be fatal, most take a severe toll on your pup's well being. Eliminating the possibility or decreasing the risk that these problems will arise can help your dog live a longer, healthier life.

DOG SPAY & NEUTER TIPS

Second, spaying and neutering your dog can reduce risky behaviors driven by sex hormones. Female dogs in heat and male dogs looking to mate are more inclined to roam, which can put them in harm's way of traffic and predators. Likewise, unneutered male dogs are more likely to act aggressively, hump, urine mark, and fight with other pups, which can lead to injuries and infections.

Finally, another important reason to spay or neuter your dog is to play a part in preventing pet overpopulation and homelessness. Almost one million shelter animals are euthanized each year in the United States, according to the ASPCA. The best way to prevent animal shelter deaths is to reduce the number of pets giving birth in unsafe or accidental circumstances. Spaying or neutering your dog is a great way to do your part.

The benefits of neutering

a female dog include:


Prevents seasons

Prevents pregnancy

Prevents womb infections (pyometra)

Prevents false pregnancies

Reduces the chance of mammary/breast problems

The benefits of neutering

a male dog include:


Prevents testicular cancer

Reduces the chance of prostate problems such as Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) later in life

Reduces the urge to seek out a female dog to mate with, and therefore reduces the urge to roam away from home

Reduces the chance of behaviours such as humping

Long-Term Benefits
Spaying eliminates female heat cycles and almost eliminates the risk of mammary tumors. Neutering prevents testicular cancer and reduces prostate issues in male pets. Sterilized pets tend to live longer, healthier lives. They are less likely to roam, mark territory, or exhibit other hormonal behaviors.


DOG SPAY & NEUTER TIPS

The best time to

spay or neuter a dog


Now that you are familiar with the reasons why dogs are spayed or neutered, you are likely wondering about the best time to do it and if it is too late for your pup. Of course, every dog has different needs and health circumstances, so itโ€™s best to consult your vet regarding any medical procedure. With that in mind, the American Animal Hospital Association recommends the following spay and neuter timelines for small and large dog breeds:

Small female dog breeds: Prior to the first heat, around 5 to 6 months of age

Small male dog breeds: 6 months of age

Large female dog breeds: 5 to 15 months of age

Large male dog breeds: After growth stops, around 9 to 15 months of age

Fully grown adult dogs can be spayed or neutered as well, but it is best to consult your veterinarian before making any decisions. The procedures can bring more complications for dogs that are overweight or have existing health conditions, but overall can still be beneficial for healthy, adult dogs.


Behaviour: - Neutering can improve some unwanted behaviours, but occasionally it makes others, such as nervousness, a bit worse. For this reason, if you are considering neutering your dog for a behavioural reason, always talk to your vet and a qualified animal behaviourist beforehand.

Weight: - Overweight/underweight dogs are more at risk of complications during surgery, so it is best to get them into good shape before neutering.

Seasons (female dogs only): - It is safe to neuter your dog before her first season, but once she has had a season, you will need to wait for approximately 3 months โ€“ neutering sooner than this can cause ongoing hormonal problems.

Other health conditions: - Certain health conditions may change your dog's ideal neutering time โ€“ speak to your vet for more information.


DOG SPAY & NEUTER TIPS

Typical costs of

spaying or neutering a dog


The cost of dog spaying and neutering can vary depending on where you are getting the procedure done and your dog's unique circumstances. Check with your vet about their pricing, and if it is out of your price range, look for a low-cost spay and neuter clinic in your area. According to Gallant, low-cost clinics can charge as little as $35 for spay & neuter services, while veterinary clinics will likely charge more (up to $400). However, you get what you pay for โ€” some dogs develop kennel cough after having spay or neuter surgery done at a low-cost clinic, so make sure your dog is vaccinated well before the surgery.

The benefits of having your regular veterinarian spay or neuter your dog include:
More personalized and better service

Preoperative blood work to ensure your dog is safe for anesthesia

More comprehensive pain management both during and after the procedure

Better follow-up care

Lower risk of infectious disease compared to some low-cost clinics

Another way to get help with spay / neuter costs is to enroll in a wellness program or plan that pays you for your dog's preventive care. While pet insurance plans for accidents and illnesses do not typically cover the costs of spaying or neutering a pet, the Pumpkin Wellness Club features a membership option that pays up to $150 towards the procedure.

What is more, you can also get cash for other important preventive care services, like vaccinations, annual checkups, and more, so even after your pup is "fixed," there are plenty more perks ahead. Remember: the expense of medical conditions resulting from not spaying or neutering your dog (like cancer or uterine infections) will likely be much higher than the cost of a spay or neuter procedure. Treating pets with reproductive system cancers can cost thousands of dollars, and tending to injuries from fights or accidents can also take a toll on your wallet.


DOG SPAY & NEUTER TIPS

What will happen

when my dog is

neutered?



Before

Food โ€“ you will need to starve your dog for 6-8 hours before they go under anaesthetic, i.e. give them dinner the night before, but no breakfast or treats on the morning of their operation. This is to make sure their stomach is empty so they do not regurgitate and choke under anaesthetic.

Water โ€“ you can leave water down for your dog until 2-3 hours before they go in for their operation, i.e. take it away at 6-7am the morning of their surgery.

Health โ€“ if your dog has been poorly in the days leading up to their operation, let your vet know so they can give them a check over and make sure they are fit for surgery.

Cleanliness โ€“ try to make sure your dog is clean when they go for their operation, and if they are very mucky give them a bath the night before.

The Operation

Your vet will check your dog over, give them a light sedative and some pain relief, and settle them in a warm, comfortable kennel.

Once the sedative has taken effect, your dog will be put under a full/general anaesthetic.

They will then be carefully monitored, while their surgery site is clipped and cleaned ready for the procedure.

If your dog is female, your vet will make a small incision along the middle of her tummy so her ovaries and womb can be carefully removed.

If your dog is male, your vet will make a small incision just above the testicles so that both testicles can be carefully removed.

If your dog is cryptorchid (has one or two retained testicles), they are likely to need two incisions for their castration.

After

Your dog will wake up from their anaesthetic under the careful watch of a vet or vet nurse, then placed in a warm, comfortable kennel to recover. Most dogs can return home a few hours after their operation, but if your dog takes a bit longer to come round from their anaesthetic, they may need to be monitored for longer.

"Chemical" Castration

Male dogs can be chemically castrated with an injection or implant that mimics the effects of castration. Chemical castration does not require a general anaesthetic and the effects are reversible. Your vet might suggest chemical castration if they want to test how castration affects your dog before performing a permanent procedure.








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HOW TO PREPARE YOUR DOG FOR SPAY & NEUTER PROCEDURE
HOW TO PREPARE YOUR DOG
FOR SPAY & NEUTER
PROCEDURE

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Spaying or neutering your pet is an important preventive care procedure that will help your furry friend live a healthy, happy life. Before booking your dog's neuter surgery, you should talk to your veterinarian about any pre-surgery expectations. Veterinarians will typically recommend running some pre-surgical blood work and conducting a physical exam to ensure your dog is healthy and does not have any health conditions that would affect his ability to tolerate anesthesia and surgery.

For healthy dogs, laboratory testing will be minimal, but dogs with preexisting conditions may require more tests. Depending on the type of anesthesia used, your veterinarian will most likely instruct you to withhold food and sometimes water for a set period of time before the surgery. If your dog takes a medication that requires food, talk to your veterinarian to see what they recommend. Withholding food and water reduces the risk of aspiration during surgery, which can lead to pneumonia and other complications.

The Myth:

It is too dangerous

to put my dog

under anesthesia


While there is always some risk involved with surgery, both spaying and neutering are incredibly safe. Anesthesia has advanced tremendously in the veterinary world. Safer anesthetics, protocols and careful monitoring have reduced the risk of anesthetic complications significantly. While the best age to spay or neuter will vary from one dog to the next, one thing is certain โ€” evidence weighs heavily in favor of getting your dog spayed or neutered at some point. Whether you have a male or female canine companion, getting this procedure done will have a positive impact on their overall health as well as their behavior, improving your chances of enjoying your pup for years to come.

DOG SPAY & NEUTER TIPS

What You Need to Know Before Surgery

You must have an appointment for surgery.

Your dogs must be in good health. If your dogs shows any sign of illness such as coughing, sneezing, runny eyes or diarrhea we will not perform surgery. See your regular veterinarian for care first, and then re-schedule surgery when your pet is healthy.

Your dog should be vaccinated at least two weeks prior to surgery.

Puppies must be 8 weeks of age AND weigh at least 2 pounds.

If your dog is over 8 years of age, we strongly recommend pre-surgical blood tests. These blood tests let us know how well your pet's liver and kidneys are functioning. You can have this done at any full service veterinary office.

The Night Before Surgery

Keep your dog safely inside your home.

If your dog is over 4 months old, do not allow him to eat any food after midnight the night before surgery.

You may allow your dog to have water.

If your puppy is less than 4 months old, he may have food and water overnight.

On the Day of Your

Surgery Appointment


Give your dog a good walk before he comes to the Clinic. He will be more comfortable.

If your dog is over 4 months old, no food this morning!

If your dog is less than 4 months old, feed him at 6:00 am the day of surgery.

Late arrivals will not have surgery and will need to be rescheduled.


DOG SPAY & NEUTER TIPS

What to Expect

During Surgery


At our animal clinic, your pet will receive a pre-anesthetic sedative to ease anxiety before general anesthesia is administered. A breathing tube ensures safety throughout surgery. For spay procedures, the uterus and ovaries are removed through a small abdominal incision. For neuters, both testicles are removed through one or two small scrotal incisions. No external stitches are required. During surgery, your pet will receive IV fluids and monitoring of heart rate, oxygen levels, and temperature. Our vet team takes every precaution to ensure excellent anesthetic safety.

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READ MORE ABOUT

DOG SPAY SURGERY



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DOG SPAY & NEUTER RECOVERY AFTER
AFTER DOG SPAY/NEUTER:
THE RECOVERY

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If your dog was recently spayed or neutered or is going to be soon, you will need to give them some specific care to help them recover. The good news is that the recovery is usually routine, and your pup will be back to themselves in no time. Once you are ready to have your pooch spayed or neutered, contact your veterinarian. They will advise on the ideal timing for the procedure and walk you through what to expect. In general, the surgery ranges from 30 minutes to an hour, or sometimes two hours in complicated surgeries. Afterward, your pet will need about two weeks to rest and heal. Your dog will likely be tired as they come out of anesthesia or off of pain medication. Let them rest in a quiet space away from other pets.

During the healing process, keep an eye on the incision for any redness, swelling, odor, or discharge. Dogs should also be prevented from licking the surgery site, as that can cause infection and complications. Most dogs will be discharged from the veterinary hospital or clinic with an Elizabethan collar (named for the English queen and fashion trend of the era) to prevent licking. Keep it on your pet at all times, or at least when they are unsupervised.

DOG SPAY & NEUTER TIPS

Do not bathe your pup until the incision fully heals. It is also very important for dogs to stay quiet and calm while they are healing. If they are too active too soon, the incision may open up, which can be disastrous. If you have a wild child, ask your vet for a sedative to keep your dog quiet for healing. Before you know it, your dog will be happily healed and ready to return to their regular routine.

What is the recovery

time for spaying

or neutering a dog?


Spaying - After spay surgery, some clinics will want to keep your dog overnight, while others will let her go home on the same day. Your dog may have some post-surgery discomfort, and the veterinarian might provide pain medication. The clinic may send your dog home with a protective collar to keep her from licking the incision. She will probably need to have her activity restricted for 7 to 10 days while she heals. Your veterinarian may have you return for a follow-up visit to check on how well your dog has healed and to remove the stitches.

Neutering - If there are no complications or other health issues, male dogs can usually go home on the same day of the procedure. The veterinarian will discuss with you any pain medication and aftercare for your dog. She will probably recommend that you restrict his activity for a few days while the incision heals. The clinic may send your dog home with a protective collar to help keep him from licking the incision. As with many surgeries, your veterinarian might have you return for a follow-up visit to see how the incision is healing and to remove the stitches.


What to expect

after neutering

your dog


After the neuter, assuming everything went according to plan, your dog will be discharged into your care. Most sutures used in neuters are absorbable, which means you will not have to return to the hospital to remove the stitches. Most dogs recover relatively quickly from neutering. A little wooziness is not unusual; post-anesthesia anxiety and fussiness is normal. Young dogs may want to return to play as soon as the same day. However, dogs should be kept calm for 10 to 14 days after surgery, or however long your veterinarian recommends.This means restricting play and exercise to short leash walks for elimination purposes and keeping your pup indoors in a clean, dry environment.

If possible, consider crating your dog when you are not around to keep him calm. Finally, keep an Elizabethan collar (e-collar) on your dog to prevent him from licking the wound, which can cause damage to the incision site and can open up the area to infection. Most dogs will not defecate for 1 to 3 days after surgery. This is totally normal and no cause for alarm. You may notice a small amount of bloody fluid collecting in the remaining scrotal sac. While this usually disappears on its own within two weeks, in rare cases where large amounts of fluids collect, a second surgery may be required. If you are worried about it, give your vet a call. Diarrhea and vomiting, while uncommon, may be other post-surgery behavior that would warrant a call to the vet.

DOG SPAY & NEUTER TIPS


"Cone of shame"

or Elizabethan collar

("E-collar")


Also known as the "buster collar" or "Elizabethan collar", a radar dish-like cone is the traditional method of protecting a dog's surgical wound from irritation. It is important to get the right size of cone for your canine companion. To check the cone fits correctly, you will need to attach it to their collar and be able to run two fingers between the collar and your dog's neck. Make sure the cone reaches at least an inch past your dog's nose โ€“ otherwise, they might be able to sneak around it to scratch at their stitches! For a lightweight alternative to using a collar, you could use a piece of ribbon to gently secure the cone around your dog's neck instead.


Inflatable collar

Should a traditional plastic cone be unappealing to your dog โ€“ and you'd like to avoid having your legs bumped into by a tough, plastic cone โ€“ an inflatable collar is a great solution! An inflatable collar is softer and less intrusive than a cone, and it won't hinder your dog from performing natural behaviours, like eating, drinking, and sleeping comfortably. Inflatable collars tend to be available in a wide range of sizes, too. Most inflatable collars are made using tough materials that can resist scratching and biting, yet they are also machine washable.


Pet suit or pet shirt

Many vets are now opting to recommend the use of a special pet suit or pet shirt to protect a dog's surgical site after spaying or neutering. An example of a vet-approved, full-body protective suit is the MPS Medical Pet Shirt. Since cones and inflatable collars are different to what your dog is used to, wearing one can cause some canines to become stressed. By choosing a vet-recommended pet suit or pet shirt, your dog can enjoy normal, everyday behaviours, while limiting the risk that they will lick or chew at their surgical wound. A modified baby grow may work for small dogs!


Is it Normal for My Dog

to Behave Strangely

After Surgery?


Following surgery, you may observe some behavioral changes in your pet during the first 24 to 48 hours, as noted by DVMs Tammy Hunter and Catherine Barnette in their article "Post-Operative Instructions in Dogs." A decrease in appetite due to nausea is a common occurrence. To help minimize the risk of vomiting, consider dividing your dog's meals into smaller portions. The effects of sedation may linger for 24 to 48 hours, resulting in drowsiness, which is a normal post-surgical response. If these behavioral changes persist beyond the initial recovery period, contact your veterinarian to rule out any underlying medical concerns.


Eating and drinking

Your vet is likely to advise giving your dog plain meals, like boiled chicken and rice, for a couple of days following their surgery. Since some dogs can feel stressed enough about their experience that their appetite is affected, it is essential to speak to the vet if your dog refuses to eat. Remember: Constant access to fresh, clean, drinking water is vital for your dog's health and recovery.


Limit Activity

While dogs naturally like to jump and play, doing so following the procedure can cause the incision to open, or can just cause overall pain and discomfort. Avoid excessive exercise, strenuous activities, or rough play for at least two weeks, or as instructed by your veterinarian. Excessive activity can strain the incision site and hinder the healing process. Try utilizing an appropriate size crate and gates to confine your dog and keep them away from stairs, other animals, or furniture that they'd normally jump on. If you have a smaller dog, carry them when possible. No dog walks for the first few days (to limit risks of injury and infection). Short toilet breaks on a lead in the garden (or another safe outdoor space). A pet-friendly ramp for easy access to furniture.


Keep the Incision Clean and Dry

Maintaining cleanliness around the incision site is crucial for preventing infection. Avoid bathing your pet for at least two weeks, or as instructed by your veterinarian. If the incision gets dirty, gently clean it with a mild antiseptic solution and a clean cloth. It is critical to make sure your pup's incision does not get dirty or infected. Your vet will give you specific care instructions, but in general, make sure it stays clean and dry.


Prevent Licking and Chewing

Licking or chewing at the incision site can lead to infection and complications. To prevent this, your veterinarian may prescribe an Elizabethan collar, commonly known as a cone, to protect the incision while it heals. Ensure your pet gets used to the cone before returning home and monitor them closely when they are unsupervised. Enter: cone of shame. It not only makes for adorable pictures, but it keeps your pup from licking at the incision which will make it wet and cause the surgical glue to dissolve too quickly. As much as they give you "the look," resist the urge to take the cone off. It is for their own good. You can also explore alternative methods to limit licking like compression suits, donut rings, and other similar items.


Monitor Pain Levels

Your veterinarian will give you instructions for administering pain medication, but keep an eye on your dog's behavior. If they start to whimper, cry, or show any other signs of severe pain, contact your vet or the ASPCA clinic.


Monitor for Signs

of Complications


While most pets recover smoothly from spaying and neutering, it is important to be aware of potential complications. Monitor your pet for signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, or discharge from the incision site. Also, watch for lethargy, loss of appetite, or any abnormal behavior. If you notice any of these signs, contact your veterinarian immediately.


Provide a Comfortable

Recovery Space


Create a quiet, comfortable space for your pet to rest and recover. This should be a quiet area away from other pets and children. Provide plenty of soft bedding and avoid placing food or water bowls near the incision site.


Keep Males and In-Heat

Females Separate


Neutered male dogs can get an unspayed female pregnant for up to 30 days after the procedure. It is best to separate newly neutered males from in-heat females for this time period.


Keep Them Busy

There a few non-activity ways to keep your dog busy after being spayed and neutered. One way is through mental exercise. You can read some ideas for mental exercise here. Another powerful way to keep your busy is with dog chews. Long-lasting, tasty, and healthy chews will keep your recently-spayed-or-neutered pup happy and busy!

Ways to keep a dog

busy after

spaying & neutering





Give Some Extra Love!

Happy and well-loved dogs will usually have an easier recovery. Plus, they deserve it. Have some extra treats on hand - it never hurts! Often being there to give your dog comfort and companionship is the most important thing you can do.


Follow Your Veterinarian's

Instructions Carefully


Follow your vet's instructions regarding medication, activity restrictions, and post-operative care. Do not deviate from these recommendations without consulting them first. If you have any concerns or questions about your dog's recovery, do not hesitate to contact your vet. They are always available to provide guidance and reassurance during this important time.








DOG SPAY & NEUTER MISCONCEPTIONS & F.A.Q
DOG SPAY & NEUTER
MISCONCEPTIONS & F.A.Q

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Roughly 78% of owned dogs are spayed or neutered, according to a 2021-2022 survey by the Humane Society. Still, many people are hesitant to sign their pets up for the procedure. A few common misconceptions may be to blame, such as:

What is the difference

between spay and neuter?


Spaying - A "spay," or ovariohysterectomy, is a veterinary surgical procedure performed under general anesthesia. It involves removal of the female dog's uterus and both ovaries through an incision made in the abdomen. A spay can also be performed laparascopically (usually with ovariectomies).

Neutering - Neutering, or castration, is the surgical removal of a male dog's testes. Also performed under general anesthesia, it is a simpler surgery than a spay. An incision is made near the front of the scrotum, then the testicles are removed through that incision.


Spaying and neutering

causes weight gain


Due to the hormonal changes associated with neutering, your dog will need around 30% less calories once they have been spayed or castrated. We recommend that you reduce your dog's portion sizes, or find a food specifically for neutered dogs, which is naturally lower in calories. If your dog is putting on weight after neutering, talk to your vet or vet nurse about the best ways to keep them in shape.


Neutering will cause

a male dog to be less

masculine or less

effective at protection


It is true that neutering your male dog will decrease his testosterone levels. High levels of testosterone in intact males are responsible for behaviors like marking inside the house, mounting your leg, picking fights with other male dogs and running away from home to seek a mate. They are also responsible for elevated risk of prostate disease and testicular cancer. But testosterone is not what drives your male dog's protective or territorial instincts, nor is it what shapes his natural temperament. Neutering your dog will have no effect on his desire to guard his territory and protect his family and livestock from potential threats. Whether or not a dog is good at protection or guarding has much more to do with breed, environment and overall health.


Will neutering change

my dog's personality?


If your pet is confident, happy and well socialised, then it is very unlikely that neutering them will change their behaviour or personality. However, if they are under-confident, fearful, or have behavioural problems, neutering could make them worse. This is because sex-hormones such as testosterone, tend to boost confidence, so a reduction in these hormones away at the wrong time might reduce your dog's confidence, making them more fearful and/or aggressive. If your dog is over-confident, or urine marks in the house, they might benefit from neutering, but the decision to neuter should always be thoroughly discussed with your vet and an ABTC accredited pet behaviourist if you are worried about their behaviour.


Can neutering change

my dog's behaviour?


The way your dog behaves is influenced by their breed, sex, socialisation and training. Whether they are neutered can affect a few behaviours, including: Scent marking, Looking for potential mates or running off to find a mate. Some people say that neutering can reduce barking and humping, but there are many reasons that dogs might show both of these behaviours, such as excitement or out of habit, and neutering may not affect them at all. Although neutering can improve some behaviours, it can make others worse. In male dogs, testosterone can give them a confidence boost, so removing their testicles, which are the main producer of their testosterone, can make some nervous and anxious dogs more fearful and more likely to be aggressive when stressed. A dogโ€™s behaviour is a complex issue that's affected by lots of different things, so it is important to talk to your vet about how neutering can affect your dog, especially if you have any concerns about their behaviour.


Does neutering a dog

calm them down?


Some people say that neutering a dog can help to "calm them down", but there is little scientific evidence for this. If you feel that your dog is over-confident, ignoring you when called, aggressive or is acting in a way that you donโ€™t think is right, then it is important to get help and talk to your vet or an animal behaviourist. They will be able to give you advice on how to help your dog and about the importance of training and positive reinforcement. Neutering is not a sure-fire way of resolving behavioural issues and can sometimes make them worse.


Does neutering help

reduce aggression

in dogs?


We now know that neutering does not prevent aggression in dogs, and in some circumstances, can even make it worse. If your dog is showing signs of aggression, we advise speaking to your vet and an ABTC accredited pet behaviourist ASAP โ€“ getting help early is extremely important.


Does my dog need

to have a litter

before I spay her?


No, there is no evidence to show that having a litter of puppies is of any benefit to your dog. Pregnancy and giving birth can come with complications, and looking after a litter of puppies is hard work, expensive and time consuming โ€“ certainly not something to enter into without a great deal of thought and planning. If you are certain you want to breed from your dog, speak to your vet for advice beforehand.


Will neutering make

my dog incontinent?


Spaying your dog when she is extremely young - less than 3 months old, can increase her risk of developing a type of incontinence called USMI, but once she is 3 months old, there is no evidence to show that it increases risk of incontinence later in life. Speak to your vet if you are worried about the best age to neuter your dog.


Can a dog be speyed

while in heat?


Ideally not. Spaying a dog in heat is much more risky because the blood vessels around the uterus become much bigger, and hormonal problems such as a long lasting false pregnancy can develop afterwards. For these reasons, itโ€™s best to spay your dog 2-3 months after her season, unless there is a specific reason to do it sooner.


How to tell if

a dog is neutered?


In most cases, it is easy to tell if a dog has already been neutered: simply checking for testicles, which are easy to spot, will do the trick. Dogs with retained testes or cryptorchids (dogs with only one testicle) can pose a challenge. However, your veterinarian will be able to determine if your dog is still intact during a physical examination.


Why does my male dog

still look like he

still has testicles

after his castration?


When a dog is castrated, the testicles (balls) are removed but the scrotum (ball sack) is not. This means sometimes they look like they still have testicles after their operation. Over time the scrotum will shrink and become less noticeable. If you notice swelling or redness in your dog's scrotum after their surgery, contact your vet for advice. There are also two spherical glands called the "bulbus glandis" that sit either side of the penis and swell when they become excited or aroused. These glands are often mistaken for testicles.


Will my dog need

to wear a buster collar

after being castrated / spayed?


Yes, most dogs need to wear a buster collar or medical shirt for a few days after they are neutered to protect their wound. If your dog licks or damages their wound they might develop an infection or cause the wound to open up.


Will neutering stop

my dog humping?


There are many reasons why dogs hump - sometimes because of hormones, but also because of excitement or habit. For more information, read our article on humping behaviour in dogs, and speak to your vet to discuss whether neutering might help.


Is it too late to

neuter my older dog?


No, in most cases neutering is a very safe and worthwhile operation, regardless of age.


Can pregnant dogs

be neutered?


Yes, in many cases it is possible to spay a pregnant dog. If you think your dog might be pregnant, contact your vet as soon as possible to discuss your options.


Can I neuter my dog

before her first season?


Yes, your dog can be neutered before her first season. In fact, neutering a female dog before her first season significantly reduces the risk of certain medical conditions such as mammary (breast) cancers and pyometra (womb infection).


What is a laparoscopic

(lap) spay?


A laparoscopic spay (lap spay) is when a dog is spayed via keyhole surgery. Lap spays create much smaller wounds, tend to be less invasive, and reduce the risk of certain complications. However, at present, they are only performed by certain vets, and require special equipment, so are not available everywhere.


I have an unneutered

female and male dog,

what should I do to

avoid an unwanted

pregnancy?


If you have an unneutered male and female in the same household, it is a good idea to consider neutering one or both of them. If this is not possible, you will need to keep them completely separate for 2-4 weeks every time your female dog is in season. They will both want to get to each other, so you will need to keep them distracted and in secure areas. If possible, it may be easier for someone else to look after your male dog while your female is in season.


Will dog

siblings mate?


Dogs are not selective about who they mate with, and given the opportunity will mate with their siblings. Their offspring would be closely related, and could have serious health problems. If your pets accidentally mate and theyโ€™re related, contact your vet as soon as possible โ€“ or better still get them neutered before any accidents happen.


Will neutering give

my dog cancer?


Neutering won't give your dog cancer โ€“ in fact neutering reduces the risk of many types of cancer. There are people who believe that neutering can increase the risk of certain cancers, but there is no solid evidence for this despite lots of scientific studies. As neutered dogs tend to live longer than un-neutered dogs, it may be that any increase in cancer rates we see are related to the longer lifespan, instead of neutering.


Is neuter surgery

risky for a dog?


Neuter surgery is an extremely common surgery that rarely results in any issues. However, there is always some degree of risk when you put an animal under general anesthesia. It is best to have blood work and a physical exam done on your dog before surgery to ensure they are healthy and have no underlying health problems. These include issues with the liver and kidney or heart murmurs.


Can I compete in

dog shows and canine activities

if my dog is neutered?


Yes. If your dog is neutered, they can still compete in dog showing and other canine activities. However, you will need to inform The Kennel Club that the dog has been neutered. You do not need to get a letter from your vet for this, but you do need to let us know.


Does Pet Insurance

Cover Spaying & Neutering?


Pet insurance policies do not typically cover the cost of preventive care such as spaying or neutering. Some insurance companies offer wellness add-on policies designed to cover routine and preventive care such as spaying or neutering, among other things. These wellness policies may have a limit on how much they will reimburse for the procedure, while others may only cover a portion of the cost. It is important to understand your policy and what it covers before you make any decisions about your dog's care.


What About

a Partial Spay?


For female dogs, there is an alternative to early spaying that offers many of the same benefits of spaying without the potential drawbacks. Partial spay, also known as ovary-sparing spay, is a procedure that removes only the uterus but keeps the ovaries intact, allowing your dog to enjoy the health benefits of elevated estrogen while still removing the chances of pyometra, uterine cancer or unwanted pregnancy.Partial spay does nothing, however, to lower your dog's risk of mammarian or ovarian cancers. Ovarian cancer in dogs is rare, however, and the survivability chances of these types of reproductive cancer tend to be higher than those of the cancers that spaying too early can help to bring about. The bottom line is that there is no general best age for when to spay a dog, nor for when they should be neutered. The best age depends on your individual dog's size, breed and health predispositions, and is something that can only be determined by you and your vet.


What Are Potential

Negative Health Consequences

of Spaying & Neutering?


Just like with any medical procedure, spaying and neutering do not come without risks. There have been some negative health consequences associated with spaying and neutering, including:

Increased risk of cystitis in females

Increased risk of incontinence

Increased aggression, especially in males

Increased risk of autoimmune thyroiditis and hypothyroidism

Potentially increased risk of certain cancers including hemangiosarcomas, osteosarcomas, transitional cell carcinomas, and adenocarcinomas

Increased risk of hip dysplasia than intact dogs


What are the

side effects of neutering

your dog?


For many owners, the behavioral side effects of neutering are reason enough to carry out the procedure. Intact male dogs have a tendency to roam in search of females, increasing their risk of injury, fights, death, and getting lost. They are also typically more aggressive than neutered males and may not do well around other male dogs, which is why many boarding facilities and doggie daycares do not accept intact adult dogs. Intact males mark their territory more than neutered malesโ€”both indoors and out. This is not only an undesirable behavior, but for dog owners who rent, it can cost them their security deposit! While there is no guarantee that neutering will turn your pup into a "perfect gentleman," if performed at the appropriate time, neutering may reduce the risk of behavioral problems associated with intact males.


What behavioural problems

are caused by spaying

at the wrong time?


Spaying when your pup is in the middle of a phantom pregnancy can lock her into that physical and emotional state. Sometimes she can show physical or behavioural signs of phantom pregnancy days after being spayed because her hormonal flow has been interrupted. If you do not wait for the phantom pregnancy to end before spaying, it can lead to:

Aggression
Anxiety
Depression
Physical problems
Resource guarding
She can also show aggression or anxiety for weeks and years after being spayed during a phantom pregnancy.


Does neutering cause

urinary incontinence?


Dogs that are affected by urinary incontinence cannot always control when they wee, causing them to occasionally leak urine. Females are more likely to develop this condition than males, affecting between 0.7 - 3 % of female dogs in England. Two recent large studies by the Royal Veterinary College, both partially funded by The Kennel Club Charitable Trust, found that: Neutered females are 2 to 3 times as likely to develop urinary incontinence than entire bitches. Dogs neutered before 6 months of age are twice as likely to develop urinary incontinence than dogs that are neutered between 6 and 12 months. Certain breeds have a higher risk of urinary incontinence, including:

Boxers
Dalmatians
Dobermann
English Springer Spaniels
Hungarian Vizslas
Irish Setters
Shar-Pei
Weimaraners
Heavier dogs were also more at risk of urinary incontinence







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