Spaying and neutering prevents unwanted pregnancies and helps control undesirable behaviors. Additionally, these procedures lower the risk of certain diseases in your dog. Our vets in Oklahoma City will guide you through the essentials of getting your dog neutered or spayed.
Why should I get my dog fixed?
If you recently got a puppy, you may be considering whether to have them spayed or neutered. This decision is important if you plan to keep them in your garden or backyard.
Having your dog fixed has advantages, such as improved health, better behavior, and potentially saving money. Dogs that are not fixed are more likely to roam and contribute to pet overpopulation. Not fixing your dog can also increase the risk of health issues, such as certain types of cancer.
Benefits of Spayed Female Dogs
Across the United States, animal shelters are filled with dogs. The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (the ASPCA) estimates that 3.3 million dogs enter the shelter system every year.
Health Benefits of Spaying Your Dog
Spaying your dog before her first "heat" can reduce the risk of diseases, such as uterine infections and breast tumors.
Financial Benefits of Spaying Your Dog
Preventing the birth of unwanted puppies saves you money. Although there's a fee for spaying, it's much cheaper than the expenses involved in taking care of a pregnant dog.
Deciding Not To Spay Your Female Dog
When female dogs are not spayed, they enter a reproductive stage called "heat." During this period, male dogs can be attracted to your dog for up to 18 days. This may result in unwelcome encounters with male dogs during walks or in your yard. It can also lead to an unintended litter of puppies.
Benefits of Neutered Male Dogs
When you neuter your male dog, you help to reduce the population of unwanted dogs in the United States.
Health Benefits of Neutering Your Dog
Neutering your dog has several benefits. It reduces the risk of them developing testicular cancer. It also lowers the risk of prostate diseases. Neutering also prevents unwanted behaviors and conditions such as perineal tumors and hernias.
Behavioral Benefits of Neutering Your Dog
Neutering can control your dog's urge to wander. It also decreases behaviors like mounting and aggression towards other dogs.
Deciding Not To Neuter Your Male Dog
Unneutered male dogs often exhibit several undesirable behaviors. These include being protective of toys and people, aggression towards other dogs, and roaming.
When to Get Your Puppy Fixed
Puppies are usually spayed or neutered when they are between five and nine months old. But even adult dogs can undergo this procedure. Talk to your vet to determine the appropriate time to get your dog spayed or neutered.
What to Expect When Getting Your Puppy Fixed
Your veterinarian will give you detailed instructions before your pet's surgery. These will include guidelines for restricting your pet's food and water before the procedure.
Once the surgery is done, your vet will give you instructions to help your dog recover. Depending on the timing of the procedure, your dog may also receive pain medication to take home. In general, female dogs take longer to recover compared to male dogs.
Please keep in mind that male dogs are not immediately sterile after neutering. It can take up to 6 weeks for them to be unable to father puppies.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.
