Neutering a Dog

Too many owners end up with neutered dogs because they mistakenly believe their dogs cannot be fixed like a human.

Dog

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This is an important question to consider because issues can form if this procedure is done too soon or too late. The recommended age to neuter a male dog is between six and nine months. However, some pet owners have this procedure done at four months. Smaller dogs reach puberty sooner and can often have the procedure done sooner. Larger breeds may need to wait longer in order to properly develop before being neutered. Consult our team to find out when the time is right for your dog.

Male dogs, especially young ones, have a propensity to be very “active” in the sexual arena while they are developing and even at older ages if not neutered. This can cause you as the owner because the last thing you want is a bunch of pups running around that you now have to take care of or go through the hassle of finding a safe home. The best way to avoid situations like this is by having your male dog neutered. (Source: www.santacruzpet.com)

Pet

Your pet will be examined by a veterinarian and pre-anesthetic blood tests will usually be performed. If everything is acceptable, your pet will be anesthetized. Most pets will have an intravenous catheter placed to administer the anesthetic and to provide fluid therapy during the surgery. After your pet is anesthetized, a breathing tube will be placed in his trachea (windpipe) to deliver oxygen and gas anesthetic directly into the lungs. The surgery consists of making a small incision in front of the scrotum and removing the testicles. Many veterinarians use absorbable internal sutures so that you do not have to return your dog to the hospital to have them removed.

Breeding dogs is a great responsibility that should not be done just because an owner wants puppies from their beloved dog. There are many potential consequences to the bitch and the puppies that need to be taken into account and prevented if possible, including producing puppies from parents with known heritable problems and medical care of the bitch and puppies. Breeding does not reduce unwanted behavior in male dogs and there is no guarantee that puppies will be anything like the parent, so this is not valid reason to breed a dog. Many puppies are abandoned at dog shelters or worse because of inappropriate breeding practices. There are usually many abandoned dogs looking for homes that an owner can find what they are looking for through shelters or rescue organizations. (Source: vcahospitals.com)