What You Need To Know About Getting Your Dog Spayed Or Neutered
Posted on: 16 January 2015
Many new puppy owners are curious about the details of spaying and neutering. There are many compelling reasons to spay or neuter your dog. These reasons range from preventing specific health conditions, to quelling overly aggressive or roaming behavior.
Spaying or neutering your dog can improve your dog's health
According to the ASPCA, spaying can potentially decrease the rate of breast cancer or ovarian tumors in female dogs. Also, neutering male dogs before six months may reduce the likelihood of testicular cancer. Other benefits to male dogs, as discussed by pets.webmd.com include a reduced risk of prostate cancer.
Spaying or neutering your dog can produce better behavior
Your male dog can still be a great guard dog if neutered. However, he may be calmer and listen better once neutered. Your female dog may have less aggressive behavior and other unwanted heat behaviors once spayed. It's still important to work on training your dog before being spayed or neutered, as well as after the procedure, so that your pet has impressive manners.
Spaying/neutering is helpful to the community and to shelters
Spaying or neutering can prevent dog overpopulation in your community. Roaming, stray dogs can be dangerous, especially to children. This medical procedure can also decrease the number of dogs going to pet shelters.
The optimal age to have my dog spayed or neutered can depend on the breed
The optimal age for having your pet fixed can vary by breed. The recommended timeframe may range from 8 weeks to 4 or 6 months of age. However, you can also have your dog spayed or neutered after the recommended time period if necessary. Talk to your vet clinic or animal hospital about their schedule and recommendations for your dog.
Low-cost options for spaying or neutering programs may be available
Coupons or low-cost vouchers for spaying and neutering may be available in your area, provided by non-profit organizations with participating vets. It can also help to research non-profit vet clinics or guilds that offer services to pet owners at a heavily discounted price. Vouchers, discounts, or reduced price services may require assessing your ability to pay.
Take care of your dog during the recovery process
This is an important question to ask your veterinarian so that you can take great care of your dog post-surgery. Your dog will likely have a cone, also known as an e-collar, around his or her neck to prevent licking or scratching the incision area. You dog will need to rest and recover, so keep the schedule low-key and keep a good eye on your pet.
Research vet clinics and animal hospitals in your area
You can get your dog spayed or neutered at an animal hospital or vet clinic by a qualified vet. In addition to asking about spay/neuter services, you might also discuss pet behavior counseling, pet tooth brushing, and more. Visit your local vet clinic or animal hospital to discuss spaying or neutering. Visit sites like http://www.amctallahassee.com to learn more.
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