Dog Spaying........ what you need to know!
Dog spaying is one of the best things you can do for your puppy - yes really! Spaying your dog is not only a worthwhile step towards reducing the population of unwanted and abandoned dogs, but it gives her some huge health advantages as well. Quick Links: There are literally millions of unwanted dogs in the world, and if your un-spayed female has an 'oops' litter, you're adding another half-a-dozen to the figures! When should I spay my dog?
What's the optimum age for dog spaying? Good question. Although there's no firm age at which spaying or neutering must be done, it's definitely better to spay your female pup before she has her first heat cycle. The timing of this first cycle depends on Fifi's size and breed (small breeds mature faster than larger ones), but it usually happens somewhere between 6 and 18 months. Her chances of developing tumors and reproductive organ cancers increase with every 'season' (heat cycle) she experiences, so obviously it's safest to spay earlier rather than later. On average female dogs come into season twice a year, but some may come in three times and some only once. This can vary depending on breed, and even vary significantly between dogs of the same breed. Spaying your puppy means that her ovaries and uterus are removed surgically, obviously removing any chances of her becoming pregnant. It's a good idea to bring up the subject of dog spaying when your pup has her Rabies shot at around 4 months of age. That way you have time to make arrangements without risking an unwanted pregnancy. Many animal shelters and organizations practice early dog spaying or neutering programs, in an effort to reduce the number of unwanted dogs and cats. There's no reason to believe this early surgery is in any way more harmful than the standard timing, but most veterinarians will recommend that you wait until Fifi is at least four months old.
What is involved in dog spaying?If you're wondering what to expect after spaying your dog, rest assured that this routine procedure is going to be beneficial.Although spaying your dog is a surgical procedure which involves general anesthesia, it's very straightforward and routine. There are definite health benefits to spaying your female dog as it significantly reduces the risks of reproductive organ diseases and tumors. As well as preventing some uterine conditions that go along with pregnancy. Research has shown that dogs who have been spayed, can live on average between 1 and 3 years longer than dogs who haven't been 'altered'. Get her surgery done before she has her first heat cycle to get the maximum health benefits. Even more good news is that, contrary to some old wives tales about spaying or neutering your dog, the procedure will not cause a dramatic change in her personality. If any change occurs, it is likely to be for the better as un-spayed females are more prone to nervousness than spayed females. Spayed dogs are also less likely to become aggressive/dominant as they mature, and they aren't inclined to roam or wander the way an un-altered 'in season' female might. And you can rest assured that Fifi will not feel as though she missed out on some life-changing experience because she didn't get a chance to have puppies! The benefits of spaying your dog are not all Fifi's either. You won't have to worry about how to prevent her from ruining your favorite rugs and furniture with her 'spotting' (bleeding) when she's in season. You'll also be spared the 24/7 visits from all the neighborhood Romeos who have been alerted to Fifi's impending fertility by her seductive aroma wafting around your household - you will be surprised how far it can travel! Spaying or Neutering
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