Why do we recommend having your dog fixed?
When you get a dog you know that you are told over and over that you need to have your new pet spayed or neutered, but what is the actual importance of this surgery?
Did you know that there are a number of benefits stretching from an effect on their health to financial benefits? Here, our Bedford vets explain more about this.
What are the benefits of having your female dog spayed?
The unfortunate truth is that shelters across the country are filled with unwanted dogs and the numbers are only climbing. The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) estimates that 3.3 million dogs pass through shelters annually.
The Health Benefits
Spaying your female dog before her first 'heat' can help to prevent uterine infections and breast tumors which can often be malignant or cancerous.
The Financial Benefits
Preventing the birth of unwanted puppies is good for your pocketbook. While there is a fee for spaying, this fee is relatively low when compared to the cost of caring for a pregnant dog, calling a vet for the birth of the puppies and caring for newborns.
When You Don't Spay
Female dogs that have not been spayed will go through a cycle twice a year which is referred to as them being in heat. During this stage, male dogs will be attracted to your female for about 18 days. This can lead to unwanted male dogs visiting your yard and possibly unwanted puppies.
What are the benefits of having your male dog neutered?
Neutering your dog will not only provide health benefits but also be a huge step in helping to control the number of unwanted puppies in America.
Health Benefits
By neutering your dog, you eliminate the risk of them developing testicular cancer and significantly reduce the risk of prostate diseases which can be serious. Neutering also helps to reduce the risk of perianal tumors and perineal hernias in your dog.
Behavioral Benefits
Neutering can help to curb your dog's desire to roam and may help to reduce behaviors such as mounting and aggression towards other dogs.
When You Don't Neuter
It is common for dogs that have not been neutered to display a variety of behaviors that can be undesirable. These include heightened territorial behavior, being over-protective of people and toys, roaming (seeking female dogs), and aggression towards other dogs.
At what age should you get your dog fixed?
If you choose to have your dog spayed or neutered the vet will recommend having this don't when they are between the ages of 5 and 9 months. Adult dogs can also be spayed or neutered. Consult your vet to find out when you should get your dog fixed.
What can you expect during the spay and neuter surgery?
Prior to the scheduled surgery, your vet will provide you with a series of instructions. It is important that you follow these instructions in order to help prevent any complications.
Once the surgery is complete your vet will provide you with post-operative instructions for helping your dog recover comfortably. Depending on which procedure has been performed, pain medication may be sent home with your dog.
Generally, female dogs take longer to recover after being spayed than male dogs after being neutered.
Once the vet has completed the surgery for your female dog she will be unable to have puppies immediately from this point on.
It is important to note that male dogs are not considered sterile immediately following surgery! It can take as long as 6 weeks for a neutered male to be considered sterile.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.