What is neutering?
neutering (also known as neutering) is the common term used to describe the surgical procedure during which both testicles are removed to render a male dog sterilized (infertile) and therefore stop its ability to play.
why should i sterilize my dog?
Neutering should be considered if you have a male pet dog. remember that guide dogs for the blind, hearing dogs for the deaf, and dogs for the disabled are routinely sterilized, and this does not affect their ability to perform their duties.
what are the advantages of neutering my male dog?
Neutering has many benefits for your dog’s long-term health, including:
- reduces the risk of benign prostatic hyperplasia (enlarged prostate that occurs with age) and prostatitis (infection of the prostate)
- reduces the risk of hormone-related diseases, such as perianal adenoma (benign tumor around the anus)
- eliminates the risk of testicular cancer, the second most common cancer in intact (unneutered) dogs
- suppresses sexual urges, which generally decreases roaming behaviors
- reduces certain types of aggression
- neutered dogs generally live longer lives than unneutered dogs
- reduces the likelihood of separation anxiety or fearful elimination
- neutering a dog will lower its metabolism; however, obesity is the result of overeating and lack of physical activity. By regulating your dog’s diet and caloric intake and ensuring regular exercise, at least daily, you can prevent obesity in neutered or intact males.
- Castration of large breed dogs before bone growth is complete has been associated with an increased risk of cruciate ligament tear (knee injury).
- neutering before maturity may be associated with an increased risk of certain behaviors, such as noise phobia.
Is castration performed for some other reason?
Castration may be used in an attempt to treat certain forms of aggression. in older dogs, the operation may be performed to treat testicular tumors and some conditions of the prostate gland. It is also used to control hormone (testosterone) dependent diseases such as perianal adenomas.
what are the possible disadvantages?
The general consensus at this time is that neutering will increase a dog’s lifespan. There are some scientific studies that have suggested increased risks of certain health conditions. Potential disadvantages of castration may include:
Despite these studies, neutering is considered the best option for your dog’s overall health and longevity. castration does not cause a change in personality, keeping instincts, intelligence, joy and affection.
when should the operation be performed?
There are many different factors to weigh when determining the optimal time to neuter a puppy, including health factors, behavioral factors, and your pet’s environment. talk to your veterinarian to determine the best time to neuter your pet.
Is there an alternative to surgery?
There are currently no approved alternatives to surgery. You should discuss this with your veterinarian to determine if there are new therapies appropriate for your pet.
Are there any hazards associated with the operation?
Castration is considered a major operation and requires general anesthesia. With any anesthetic there is always the risk of serious complications, including death. however, with modern anesthetics and monitoring equipment, the risk of a complication is very low. It has been said that your pet is more likely to be injured in a car accident than to suffer an anesthetic or surgical complication.
what happens when my dog undergoes this procedure?
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 anesthetic and provide fluid therapy during surgery. After your pet is anesthetized, a breathing tube will be placed in the windpipe (trachea) to deliver oxygen and anesthetic gas directly to the lungs. The surgery involves making a small incision in front of the scrotum and removing the testicles. Many vets use internal absorbable sutures so you don’t have to take your dog to the hospital to have them removed.
Are there any post-operative precautions I should take?
rest and restriction of activity are the main postoperative care that you should provide. most dogs can resume normal activity five to ten days after surgery. Until then, it is recommended to walk on a leash, get plenty of rest, and not swim, bathe, run, or climb stairs. Many veterinarians will recommend that your pet wear a protective device such as an Elizabethan collar (electronic collar) or electronic collar alternatives to prevent your dog from licking the incision.
