If you're welcoming a new puppy into your family, you might be wondering if you should get them spayed or neutered. Here, our San Angelo vets share a comprehensive guide on when and how to get your dog fixed.
Should you get your dog fixed?
Each year, around 3.3 million dogs are taken to shelters in the United States, as reported by the ASPCA (American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals).
To contribute to the solution of reducing the overwhelming number of unwanted puppies and enhance your pet's behavior, as well as minimize the chances of certain health issues, spaying or neutering your dog is highly recommended.
What is the difference between spaying and neutering?
First, it's important to understand what 'fixing your dog' actually means. 'Fixing' is the term used when talking about spaying or neutering a dog.
Spaying Female Dogs
Spaying a female dog involves the surgical removal of her reproductive organs, which can be done through either an ovariohysterectomy (removal of both uterus and ovaries) or an ovariectomy (removal of only the ovaries). Once your female dog has undergone spaying, she will no longer have the ability to reproduce and have puppies.
Neutering Male Dogs
For male dogs, neutering, or castration, involves the removal of both testicles and their associated structures. A neutered dog is unable to reproduce.
Benefits of Spaying or Neutering Your Dog
Aside from the benefit of reducing unplanned puppies, there are plenty of other reasons to spay or neuter your dog.
Neutering helps to prevent male dogs from developing testicular cancer and can also help reduce unwanted behaviors such as aggression, humping, and straying.
Spaying your female dog can help to prevent serious health problems such as pyometra, (a potentially life-threatening uterine infection), and mammary cancer.
When Should You Get Your Dog Fixed?
The timing of spaying and neutering procedures can be influenced by various factors, but it is possible to perform these procedures on puppies as young as a few months old. In the past, it was common to have puppies spayed or neutered between the ages of 4 and 6 months.
Talk to your vet about the right time to say or neuter your puppy.
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.