Neutering

All dogs have a right to a caring home and too many puppies grow up to become homeless dogs. For this reason all dogs should be neutered.

Neutering has health benefits as well. Spaying females under a year of age reduces the risk of breast cancer, the most common cancer to afflict female dogs. Unless spayed, older bitches risk developing a dangerous pyometra (a pus-filled womb). Spaying also prevents false pregnancy that can occur after a season (symptoms are moodiness and milk production). Drugs are available to suppress heat or prevent pregnancy after accidental mating, but these can have side effects.

In males, neutering makes both prostatic disease and some cancers less likely. There is also less risk from fighting or accidents while roaming.

Many owners worry that their pet will become fat after neutering, but this is easily prevented by correct feeding. Over-feeding and feeding your dog people food is the real cause of obesity. Neutered animals require less food, therefore reduce the amount fed after neutering and weigh your dog regularly. Occasionally, older spayed bitches may leak a little urine whilst sleeping, but this can be easily controlled.

Neutering can be done at any age but, for the greatest benefit, should be done under one year of age. A bitch cannot be spayed during a heat, when producing milk during false pregnancy or after whelping. Your vet will advise on the exact timing.

Help! My female dog has been “caught” by a male dog!

Injections can be given to prevent pregnancy, but must be given quickly (within a couple of days of mating). It is also possible to spay a dog in very early pregnancy. Contact your vet immediately to discuss the best option.