When to neuter/spay your dog?
Alpine Veterinary Care recommends neutering/spaying between 6 months to 1 year of age depending on breed and lifestyle. There are other factors such as aggressiveness, marking behavior and reproduction cycles that must be taken into consideration when deciding when to neuter your dog. If you have any questions or concerns about spaying or neutering, please contact your veterinarian office. We recommend an exam with a veterinarian to discuss the best timing for your individual dog.
DOG NEUTER
Dog neutering, also known as castration, is the removal of the testicles of a male dog so he cannot impregnate a female dog. This procedure is only performed safely by a veterinary surgeon. Your dog will be fasted or not given food the morning of the surgical procedure. The day of the procedure:
o A physical exam is performed to assess the over health of your dog. A pre-anesthetic is given to help with anxiety, pain and to lower the amount of general anesthesia medication.
o A member of your veterinary team will monitor your dog while under anesthesia.
o A small incision is made in front of the scrotum. The testicles are each removed, the blood supply and spermatic cord are tied off. The incision is closed with sutures.
· Additional steps that will need to be taken to maintain a safe and comfortable recovery include
o Providing a quiet place for your dog to recover indoors and away from other animals
o Keeping your dog indoors and attempt to limit running and jumping
o Preventing your dog from licking the incision site. Some dogs need an elizabethan collar to prevent them from licking the surgical site.
o No bathing or swimming for at least 10 days after surgery
o Checking the incision for any redness, swelling or discharge. If you become concerned about the incision, please contact your veterinarian. Please call your veterinarian if your dog becomes lethargic, has a decreased appetite, is vomiting or has diarrhea.
DOG SPAY
Spaying a dog is also known as an ovariohysterectomy, which is the removal of the ovaries and uterus so that she cannot get pregnant and give birth to puppies. This procedure is safely performed by a veterinary surgeon. Your dog will be fasted or not given food the morning of the surgical procedure. The day of the procedure:
o A physical exam is performed to assess the over health of your dog. A pre-anesthetic is given to help with anxiety, pain and to lower the amount of general anesthesia medication.
o A member of your veterinary team will monitor your dog while under anesthesia.
o A small incision is made on your dog’s abdomen near the umbilicus. The ovaries and uterus are removed during this procedure. The incision is then closed with sutures.
· Additional steps that will need to be taken to maintain a safe and comfortable recovery include:
o Providing a quiet place for your dog to recover indoors and away from other animals.
o Keeping your dog indoors and attempt to limit running and jumping.
o Preventing your dog from licking the incision site. Some dogs need an elizabethan collar to prevent them from licking the surgical site.
o No bathing or swimming for at least 10 days after surgery.
o Checking the incision for any redness, swelling or discharge. If you become concerned about the incision, please contact your veterinarian. Please call your veterinarian if your dog becomes lethargic, has a decreased appetite, is vomiting or has diarrhea.
Common misconceptions of spaying and neutering your dog.
Does spaying and neutering cause your dog to become overweight?
By neutering your male dog, it will reduce the levels of testosterone which can have a positive impact on weight control. It is possible to keep spayed and neutered dogs fit with portion control and regular exercise program. An animal gaining weight is not due to being spayed or neutered, it is due to the lack of exercise and overfeeding.
Will it change my dog’s behavior?
Aggressive tendencies in male dogs can be reduced through neutering, but it will not change their personalities significantly.
Make your appointment to spay or neuter your dog today!
Please call our office to schedule an appointment. Our experienced staff is here to answer any questions or concerns you may have about spaying and neutering.