Raising a puppy is a tough job. You must put in efforts to teach them to potty train, obey easy commands, socialize, and make sure you are on par with their vaccination schedule. But one of the toughest decisions you could face is whether to spay your dog or not. Talking to a veterinarian in Kitchener would be a great first step in navigating through the available information and making the right decision for your pet.
In this article, we will delve into the world of spaying a dog, exploring its benefits, risks, and what to expect during the procedure.
What is spaying a dog?
Spaying a dog, also known as ovariohysterectomy, is a surgical procedure that involves removing the ovaries and uterus of a female dog. This procedure is commonly performed to prevent unwanted breeding, reduce the risk of certain health problems, and curb undesirable behaviors
There are two types of sterilization procedures in dogs, namely:
- Ovariectomy: Involves the removal of only the ovaries in the female dog.
- Ovariohysterectomy: Involves the removal of both the uterus and ovaries in a female dog.
What are the benefits of spaying a dog?
Spaying a dog offers numerous benefits, including:
Population control: Spaying a dog prevents unwanted breeding, which in turn reduces the number of homeless dogs in shelters.
Reduced risk of health problems: Spaying a dog reduces the risk of certain health problems, such as uterine infections and breast tumors.
Curbed undesirable behaviors: Spaying a dog can reduce heat cycles, and curb undesirable behaviors, such as roaming and aggression.
Reduced risk of certain cancers: Spaying a dog reduces the risk of certain cancers, such as ovarian and uterine cancer.
Reduced mess: Heat cycles not only affect health, but they also result in a mess and become tedious for owners to clean. This spaying helps prevent such complications.
Are there any risks of spaying a dog?
While spaying a dog is generally a safe procedure, there are some risks involved, including:
Infection: As with any surgical procedure, there is a risk of infection.
Adhesions: Adhesions may form in the abdomen, which can lead to complications.
Hernia: A hernia may develop at the incision site.
Reaction to Anesthesia: There is a risk of an adverse reaction to the anesthesia used during the procedure.
What to expect during the procedure?
The procedure for spaying a dog typically involves:
Pre-Surgical Preparation: The dog is prepared for surgery by withholding food and water for a certain period. This helps prevent them from vomiting due to anesthesia. Additionally, you must prepare your home for the post-operative care of the dog.
Examination: Before the procedure, the vet will examine your pet and evaluate its health. The doctor may recommend a few blood tests to make sure the dog is healthy and fit for the surgery. This prevents the occurrence of any unwanted complications.
Anesthesia: The dog is put under general anesthesia to ensure comfort during the procedure.
Surgical procedure: The surgical procedure involves making an incision in the abdomen, removing the ovaries and uterus, and closing the incision.
Recovery: The dog is allowed to recover from the anesthesia and surgery.
What does post-surgical care involve?
After the procedure, it is essential to provide proper post-surgical care, including:
Monitoring: Monitor the dog’s vital signs and watch for any signs of complications. The dog may be kept in the hospital for a few days depending on the condition of its health.
Pain management: Manage the dog’s pain with medication and other methods.
Rest: Ensure the dog gets plenty of rest and avoids strenuous activities. Your dog may be kept calm and quiet for 10 to 15 days.
E-collar: Your vet may provide you with an Elizabethan collar to prevent your dog from irritating her sutures.
Follow-up care: Follow up with the veterinarian to ensure the dog is healing properly.
Summary
Spaying a dog is a common surgical procedure that offers numerous benefits, including population control, reduced risk of health problems, curbed undesirable behaviors, and reduced risk of certain cancers. While there are some risks involved, they can be minimized by choosing a qualified veterinarian and providing proper post-surgical care. If you’re considering spaying your dog, consult with your veterinarian to determine if it’s the right decision for your furry friend.
