SPAYING and NEUTERING

The Pet Population Problem... Every year, millions of unwanted dogs and puppies are needlessly destroyed. The good news is that every pet owner can make a difference. By having your dog surgically sterilized, you will do your part to prevent the birth of unwanted puppies and you will enhance your pet's health and quality of life.

What is surgical altering? During surgical altering, a veterinarian removes certain reproductive organs. If your dog is female, the veterinarian will usually remove her ovaries, fallopian tubes, and uterus. The medical name for this operation is an ovariohysterectomy, although it is commonly called "spaying". If your dog is male, the testicles are removed and the operation is called an orchlectomy, commonly referred to as castration, or simply, "neutering".

Benefits of Spaying and Neutering are GREAT!! Female dogs experience a "heat" cycle approximately every 6 months, depending upon the dog. A female dog's heat cycle can last as long as 21 days, during which your dog will leave blood stains in the house and may become anxious, short-tempered, and actively seek a male. Spaying eliminates their heat cycles and generally reduces the negative behaviors that may lead to owner frustration and, ultimately, a decision to relinquish the pet to a shelter. Most importantly, early spaying of female dogs helps protect them from serious health problems later in life, such as uterine infections and breast cancer. Male dogs are capable of breeding at 6 - 9 months of age. Unaltered male dogs are likely to begin "marking" their territories by spraying a strong-smelling urine on your furniture, curtains, and in virtually any part of the hosue. Also, given the slightest chance, males may attempt to escape from the home in search of a mate. Dogs seeking a female in heat can become aggressive and may injure themselves and people by engaging in fights. Neutering male dogs reduces the need to breed and can have a calming effect that makes them less inclined to roam and more content to stay at home. Neutering your male pet also improves his health by reducing the rish of prostate disease, testicular cancer, and infections.

What is the Best Age to Spay or Neuter? Your dog can be surgically altered at almost any age. We recommend having it done prior to age 6 months. Both operations lead to improved long-term health, prevents unwanted litters, and eliminates bad behavior problems associated with the mating instinct. One female dog and her offspring can produce an extremely large number of dogs within a relatively short time span. Don't let this begin with you!!!

Will the surgery affect my pet's disposition or metabolism? The procedure has no effect on a pet's intelligence or ability to learn, play, work, or hunt. Most pets tend to be better behaved following the operation, making them more desireable companions. Contrary to popular belief, the surgery will not make your pet fat. A balanced diet and exercise will keep your pet from experienceing the health risks associated with obesity. Please feel free to ask your veterinarian to advise you on the best diet and exercise plan for your dog for each state of its life. Contrary to what some people believe, getting pregnant -- even once -- does not improve the behavior of female dogs. In fact, the mating instinct may lead to undesireable behaviors and result in undue stress on both the owner and the animal. Also, while some pet owners may have good intentions, few are prepared for the work and mess involved in monitoring their pet's pregnancy, caring for newborns and locating good homes for all the offspring.