What’s the point? That is a question we often get asked when it comes to conversations surrounding neutering. So, let us tell you why it is important.
Neutering is a term used to describe a surgical procedure carried out under general anaesthetic to remove the reproductive organs of both male and female dogs. You might hear the terms spay or castrate used in a veterinary setting, they just help distinguish the procedure between male and female. Female dogs are spayed being the removal of their ovaries and uterus, whereas male dogs are castrated being the removal of their testicles.
Most dogs can be neutered from six months of age, but there are a number of factors to consider such as if they are overweight, if they are a larger breed, if they are experiencing any other health conditions and if they are in season.
So, why is it important?
- To prevent the risk of testicular cancer in males and uterus infections (pyometra) in females. Unneutered female dogs are also at high risk of developing mammary tumours.
- To prevent unplanned litters, this is particularly important for dogs that live with their litter mates as this increases the risk of offspring with birth defects. Pregnancy and delivery can also be a health risk for dogs, particularly brachycephalic breeds which often require a caesarean, an expensive surgical procedure.
- To help address behaviour concerns such as humping or scent marking. Particular behaviours exhibited by male dogs such as frustration when a nearby bitch is in season or aggression towards other dogs may be less likely to occur following neutering.
Still not convinced? Please read Jelly Bean’s story.
Jelly Bean is our golden oldie who sadly found herself as a stray at 14 years old. Jelly Bean was recently spayed at our Health Centre, however during her procedure she was found to be suffering from pyometra which is a serious infection of the uterus.
Pyometra typically occurs a few weeks after a season has finished, a time when hormonal changes occur increasing the chance of the infection and often requires emergency surgery. The symptoms of pyometra are not always obvious and this was the case for Jelly Bean; the fact she was booked in for her neutering procedure saved her life.
Jelly Bean is now thankfully recovering from her procedure in one of our lovely foster homes.
Can The Rescue Hotel help neuter my dog?
Yes. The Rescue Hotel Health Centre is our affordable and community focused facility based at Cardiff Dog’s Home and offers an appointment-based neutering service twice a week.
You do not need to be based in Cardiff to use our services and we welcome all dog owners.
You can find out more about our neutering service here, including the cost and how to make an appointment.
Neutering is a relatively safe, routine procedure. As with any operation, there is a small risk of complications during and after surgery. Please visit our ‘Frequenty Asked Questions’ page for more information on what to expect the day of the procedure as well as during recovery.