One of the most important decision’s a dog owner can make, is that of spaying their dog. Spaying is a safe and effective procedure. It not only helps reduce the pet over-population and prevent unwanted litters but also may benefit your pet directly by helping avoid medical and behavioral problems down the road.
What is a spay?
A spay, otherwise known as ovario-hysterectomy, is the complete removal of the female reproductive organs, the uterus and ovaries.
Is it painful?
We take every precaution to ensure the best possible care for your dog. But it’s important to remember that all surgeries are painful. Village Veterinary Hospital provides your pet with pre-surgical pain relief medication as well as “go home” pain medication.
When should I spay my dog?
You should spay your dog possibly before her first heat cycle and or before six months of age. But it is never too late to spay your dog.
What are the benefits to the dog?
If your dog is spayed before her first heat cycle, it will decrease her chance of developing mammary cancer. Uterine Cancer and Pyometra are also very common in unsprayed dogs.
Benefits to the owner?
A dog’s heat cycle will last for about 3 weeks and she will be able to conceive for about 10 days. During these three weeks your dog will experience discharging of blood, urinating more frequently, exude an odor which will attract male dogs, and will probably try to “get out” every chance she gets.
Did you know?
That more than 3 million cats and dogs are euthanized in shelters. These are not just animals found on “the streets” but often are family pet’s offspring and purebreds. Animals that have got out that one time and the litter was not intentional, but efforts to find good homes failed.
Village Veterinary Hospital offers a Laser Surgery for this procedure as well. Please read more about the Laser Surgery on the topics of interest page.
Spaying dogs is a very common procedure, done everyday in most veterinary practices. Our Doctors and Technician will answer any further questions you may have and set an appointment for you today, please contact our office at 505-869-2627.