Having your dog spayed or neutered can reduce the risk of certain diseases and prevent unwanted litters. In this article, our Villa Rica vets share what you need to know about getting your puppy fixed.
Why Should I Get My Dog Fixed?
If you have a new puppy you might be wondering why you should get your dog spayed or neutered, particularly if your dog will be on-leash during walks and otherwise confined to your home and garden.
In fact, there are many reason to have your dog fixed, including some significant health benefits, behavioral benefits, and financial benefits!
Benefits Of Spaying Female Dogs
Sadly, animal shelters are filled with unwanted dogs. The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) estimates that 3.3 million dogs pass through shelters each year.
Health Benefits of Spaying Your Dog
Spaying your female dog before her first 'heat' can help to prevent uterine infections and breast tumors which can often be malignant or cancerous.
Financial Benefits of Spaying Your Dog
Ensuring unwanted puppies are not born is beneficial for your financial well-being. Although there is a fee associated with spaying, it is comparatively affordable compared to the expenses incurred in taking care of a pregnant dog, arranging veterinary assistance for the birth of puppies, and providing for the needs of newborns.
Deciding Not To Spay Your Female Dog
When female dogs are not spayed, they experience a reproductive phase commonly known as "heat" approximately two times per year. Throughout this period, male dogs are drawn to your female dog for roughly 18 days. As a consequence, your yard may be frequented by unwanted male dogs, increasing the potential for unwanted puppies to be born.
Benefits Of Neutering Male Dogs
As with spaying female dogs, when you neuter your male dog you help to limit the population of unwanted dogs.
Health Benefits of Neutering Your Dog
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 of Neutering Your Dog
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.
Deciding Not To Neuter Your Male Dog
There are a number of undesirable behaviors that are typical of male dogs that have not been neutered. These include heightened territorial behavior, being over-protective of people and toys, roaming (seeking female dogs), and aggression towards other dogs.
When To Get Your Puppy Fixed
Puppies are usually spayed or neutered between five to nine months of age. Adult dogs can also be spayed or neutered. Consult your vet to find out when you should get your dog fixed.
What To Expect When Getting Your Puppy Fixed
Your veterinarian will furnish you with comprehensive pre-surgical guidelines, which may involve regulating your pet's food and water intake prior to the scheduled procedure.
After the surgery is successfully completed, your vet will provide you with post-operative instructions to ensure a comfortable recovery for your dog. Depending on the specific procedure performed, pain medication may be prescribed for your dog's home care.
Typically, female dogs require more time to recuperate after being spayed compared to male dogs after being neutered.
Once a female dog has undergone spaying, she becomes sterile and incapable of bearing puppies.
It is essential to note that male dogs do not achieve immediate sterility following surgery. It may take up to six weeks for a neutered male to be considered sterile.