Most dog owners are of the impression that the only reason for spaying is to prevent pregnancy. However, there other reasons to consider. Spaying involves the removal of the ovaries which release reproductive hormones that control the heat cycle. Therefore, the decision to spay your female dog may be based on the benefits associated with removal of this hormone control.
The removal of the heat cycle directly reduces the possibility of breast cancer later in life especially if the surgery is done before the animal's first heat. To achieve this, spaying can be scheduled as early as 5 months of age.
The procedure prevents the possibility of another relatively common reproductive condition called pyometra, which refers to an infection in the uterus that can become life threatening if left untreated, or if treated too late.
In homes where animals who are related are kept together, spaying removes the possibility of inbreeding.
Another reason for spaying deals with unwanted male attention. Even if a yard is secure and there are no males on the premises, a female in heat can attract males outside the gate/fence that may harass her, make unwanted noise or even fight and become aggressive.
Once the decision is made to have your female spayed, it is recommended that an appointment should be made when the dog is not in heat. If, however, you have already decided to spay and the dog went into heat and you are adamant you do not want a litter of pups then the surgery may be carried out at a slightly higher fee due to the increased difficulty of the procedure. Opting to carry out the procedure while in heat, while not routinely recommended, still ensures that no accidental pregnancy and hence no unwanted puppies are produced. Talk to your vet about the right approach to your situation.
When your appointment is set, it is important to understand and follow the pre and post surgery instructions set by your vet, since disregard for these instructions may result in unnecessary life threatening consequences.
Before surgery, your vet will recommend that you fast your pet from food for a certain number of hours. If disobeyed, your pet may vomit while under anesthesia and can suffocate. So even though it may be difficult to intentionally withhold food, it is crucial.
After surgery, your pet must be confined to a kennel and rested until stitches are due to be removed. If not, your pet's normal level of activity may cause stitches to burst, internal structures to protrude, and may cause death in severe cases. If your pet is seen biting at the stitches or kicking it incessantly, a cone shaped E collar should be put on.
It is important to follow post op care such as cleaning of the wound and application of topical medications and tablets since this would ensure quick healing time. Do not give your pet any human drugs such as pain killers or any other medications that were not prescribed. In the event of any concerns or abnormal findings please contact your vet as soon as possible.
