Spaying or Neutering Dogs
Having your dog spayed or neutered, also known as "fixing," offers numerous health benefits and can decrease undesirable behaviors such as mounting, roaming, and animal aggression. Additionally, it helps in preventing unwanted puppies. Spaying and neutering also reduce the number of unwanted dogs in shelters, where approximately 3.3 million dogs end up each year.
Even though having your dog fixed can be emotional, it's a worthwhile investment for you and your pup.
Is it safe to have my dog spayed or neutered?
Most veterinarians can perform common veterinary procedures; however, just like medical procedures for humans, there is always a risk involved when an animal undergoes anesthesia.
Your veterinarian surgeon will closely monitor your dog during surgery to identify and address potential complications.
What are the differences between spay & neuter surgeries?
While spaying and neutering are surgical procedures used to sterilize dogs to prevent them from reproducing, a key difference sets them apart.
When a male dog is neutered (castrated), the testicles are surgically removed while he is under general anesthesia. During a spaying procedure, a female dog is surgically sterilized when the uterus and both ovaries are removed while she is under general anesthesia. We often refer to both surgeries as neutering or "fixing" dogs.
How can I ease my dog's pain after spaying or neutering?
Help your dog rest and feel comfortable following surgery. Here are a few tips if you're wondering how to comfort a dog who may be in pain after neutering.
- Put your dog in a cone (Elizabethan collar) or postoperative jumpsuit (recovery suit) to prevent them from licking the incision site. Licking the incision may transfer bacteria and cause infection.
- Check the incision site daily to confirm that it is healing well and that there are no signs of infection.
- For two weeks after the spay or neuter surgery, prevent your pet from jumping or running.
- If you notice any discharge, swelling, or redness at the surgery site, or if the incision opens, contact your vet. Also, call your vet if your dog has diarrhea, begins vomiting, stops eating, or seems lethargic.
- Have a quiet place for your dog to rest and recover indoors, away from other animals.
- Follow your vet’s advice about physical activity following the procedure since your dog may require further restrictions.
How long will my dog be in pain after neutering or spaying?
Spaying female dogs is a more complex procedure than neutering males, but both have similar recovery times.
After surgery, your dog may feel tired or queasy due to the effects of anesthesia, but they should begin to act like themselves the following day with minimal pain or discomfort.
Any discomfort from the procedure typically lasts only a few days and should resolve within a week. Contact your vet if your dog experiences pain or discomfort beyond a few days.
Will my pet need pain meds after surgery?
Due to anesthesia, your dog or cat will not feel pain during surgery, but they will require pain medication afterward. Your vet will administer long-lasting pain medication via injection, lasting 12 to 24 hours.
Your vet will prescribe take-home pain medication, such as Rimadyl or Torbugesic, to manage any postoperative pain your dog may experience. Follow your vet's instructions exactly and avoid giving your dog human pain medications, which can be harmful or poisonous.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.