Neutering dogs
Bitch Spey
Speying, or neutering, involves the removal of the ovaries and the uterus (Ovario-hysterectomy). Surgery can be performed from 5 – 6 months provided the bitch is not in season. However, if surgery has been delayed to after the first season, then the optimum time to spey is 3 months after the finish of the season.
Advantages
- The bitch will no longer come into season
- No risk of pregnancy and elimination of problems of false pregnancy
- No risk of having a potentially life threatening infection of the uterus (Pyometra) which is common in middle aged bitches which have not been neutered
- Reduced risk of mammary tumours – if neutered pre-season
Disadvantages
- Increased tendency to gain weight, therefore it is important to monitor your dog and weigh her whenever she is brought to the practice
- You may notice changes in coat texture
- There may be a increase in the risk of urinary incontinence
- All general anaesthetics involve some risks. The risk is smaller in young, fit animals than in older dogs (e.g. those that are ill with a pyometra).
Dog Castration
Castration, or neutering, involves the surgical removal of the testicles and can be done in any male dog from 5 – 6 months onwards.
Advantages
- All male dogs have natural urges. Castration reduces these and also the resulting tendency to roam and other undesirable behaviour.
- Some potentially life-threatening medical problems are more likely to occur in entire males e.g. hernias, prostate trouble, testicular tumours. Castration reduces or removes the danger.
Disadvantages
- It is not true that 'their temperament changes for the worse'. There is no change in the dogs' temperament, if anything they become more loving.
- Increased tendency to gain weight, therefore it is important to monitor your dog and weigh him whenever he is brought to the practice
- All general anaesthetics involve some risks. The risk is smaller in young, fit animals than in older dogs (e.g. those that are ill with testicular tumours or prostate problems)