When can you neuter or spay your dog
With the number of pets kept by families; it is evident that animals, particularly dogs, are loved. Dogs have always been a part of most households. Because dogs would be a lifetime source of unconditional love, people will do everything for the welfare of the dog. Unfortunately, the surplus of animal population as well as financial and resources restrictions makes it impossible for humans to care for all the dogs. Because dog population exceeds the number of people willing to take a pet, millions of these unfortunate animals are put to sleep. Homeless dogs can be greatly reduced if unwanted litters is reduced by spaying or neutering a dog.
Neutering is a procedure that render male dogs permanently unable to reproduce. For female dog, the procedure done to prevent reproduction is known as spaying. This short surgery that is performed while the dog is under general anesthesia will remove the testicles in males and the uterus and ovaries in females.
Surgical sterilization has other benefits other than addressing dog population problem as the procedure can also prevent the development of unwanted behaviors that commonly arise from the dog’s mating instinct.
A dog that has undergone surgical sterilization will be easier to control as the aggressive nature is commonly modified but the dog’s natural affectionate personality will not be changed. More importantly, spayed and neutered dogs generally live healthier and longer lives as the risk for different types of cancer is considerably decreased.
Dog owners concerned for the health, welfare and happiness of the pet would ensure that the dog is spayed or neutered. Animal experts have conflicting views on the right age to surgically sterilize a dog. Dogs can be neutered or sterilized anytime and at any age. Through the studies done on canine sterilization it was found out that it would be advantageous to the dogs if the procedure is done at an early age. The popular belief is to have the procedure after the dog have had its first heat cycle but no evidence supports that this idea would be healthier for the pet. Contrary to popular belief, spaying or neutering is best done at an early age not only to prevent the dog from producing unwanted litters but also to lessen the risk of some health concerns as well as the development of unwanted behaviors.
Traditionally, dogs can only undergo sterilization procedure after reaching the age of 6 to 8 months. However, after safer pediatric anesthetic methods became available, the American Veterinary Medical Association has recommended the sterilization of dogs 8 weeks of age as long as the dog weighs over two pounds.
Still wonder when you should neuter or spay your dog? Find out more about this and first aid for dogs at Sarah’s Dogs.
robbie on November 28th 2010 in Dog Ownership, Dog behavior, training Tips
