Getting your dog fixed is important because it prevents unplanned litters, and helps to reduce unwanted behaviors and risks of certain diseases. In this article, our Corpus Christi vets explain what you need to know about getting your dog fixed.
What does it mean to get a dog fixed?
Pet owners often visit the vet within a few days of getting a new puppy to get their dog fixed. Getting fixed is when a dog has surgery to remove their testicles so they can't reproduce. When dogs get fixed they are sterilized which prevents diseases and helps them live longer.
Why should I get my dog neutered?
If you have a new puppy you might be wondering why you should get your dog spayed or neutered. If your dog will be on a leash during walks and otherwise confined to your home and garden, you may not think that it is necessary to get your dog fixed.
Even if your dog will be mostly isolated from other dogs, there are many other reasons to have your dog fixed. Some other benefits of having a neutered dog include significant health benefits, behavioral benefits, and even financial benefits!
Benefits of Spayed Dogs (Female)
When female dogs are spayed, it helps to avoid unplanned puppies and can save you money in the long run. Although there's a cost associated with spaying, it's much less than the expenses of caring for a pregnant dog, veterinary fees for puppy delivery, and the care of the newborns.
Spaying your female dog before her first 'heat' can also help to prevent uterine infections and breast tumors which can often be malignant or cancerous.
When female dogs are not spayed, they go through a reproductive stage often referred to as 'heat' about twice a year. During this stage, male dogs will be attracted to your female for about 18 days. This can lead to unwanted male dogs visiting your yard and possibly unwanted puppies.
Benefits of Neutering Male Dogs
As with spaying female dogs, when you neuter your male dog you help to reduce the population of unwanted dogs in the United States.
By neutering your dog, you eliminate the risk of them developing testicular cancer and significantly reduce the risk of prostate diseases which can be serious. Neutering also helps to reduce the risk of perianal tumors and perineal hernias in your dog.
Neutering can reduce your dog's urge to wander and may lessen behaviors like mounting and aggression towards other dogs.
Unneutered male dogs often exhibit unwanted behaviors such as increased territoriality, excessive protectiveness of people and toys, wandering in search of female dogs, and aggression towards other dogs.
When to Get Your Puppy Fixed
Typically, puppies are spayed or neutered between five to nine months of age. Adult dogs can also be spayed or neutered. Consult your vet to find out when you should get your dog fixed.
What to Expect When Getting Your Puppy Fixed
Your vet will provide you with detailed pre-surgical instructions which may include restricting your pet's food and water before the scheduled surgery.
After the surgery, your veterinarian will give you detailed post-operative guidelines to ensure your dog's comfortable recovery. Depending on the type of procedure your dog underwent, your vet may also provide pain medication to administer at home to help manage any discomfort. It's crucial to follow these instructions carefully to allow for a smooth and successful recovery for your pet.
Generally, female dogs take longer to recover after being spayed than male dogs after being neutered. Once a female has been spayed, she is considered sterile and unable to have puppies.
It is important to note that male dogs are not considered sterile immediately following surgery! It can take as long as 6 weeks for a neutered male to be considered sterile.