New dog owners often have questions for our McAllen vets about whether they should get their pet neutered or spayed. Today we share some great reasons why you should consider getting your puppy fixed.
Should you get your dog fixed?
Data from the ASPCA (American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals) reports that about 3.3 million dogs enter shelters every year across the USA.
Spaying or neutering your dog is the best way for you to help reduce the overall number of unplanned puppies each year while improving your pet's behavior and reducing their risk of potentially serious health conditions.
Spaying vs. Neutering
What do we mean when we refer to 'fixing' a dog? 'Fixing' is the general term we use when talking about spaying or neutering a dog.
Spaying Female Dogs
Spaying refers to the surgical removal of a female dog's reproductive organs through either an ovariohysterectomy (both uterus and ovaries) or an ovariectomy (only the ovaries). After your female dog has been spayed, she will not be able to have puppies.
Neutering Male Dogs
For male dogs, neutering, or castration, involves the removal of both testicles and their associated structures. A neutered dog is unable to father any puppies.
What are the benefits to having my dog neutered or spayed?
Besides reducing the risk of unwanted puppies, there are a number of other benefits to spaying or neutering your dog.
Neutered Dog
Having your male dog neutered will protect your dog from developing testicular cancer and can also help reduce unwanted behaviors such as aggression, straying, and inappropriate behaviors.
Spayed Dog
Getting your female dog spayed can help to prevent serious health problems such as pyometra, (a potentially life-threatening uterine infection), and mammary cancer.
When should I get my dog fixed?
Although spaying and neutering can be done on healthy puppies as young as a few months old, there are a number of factors that can affect this decision. Traditionally, puppies are fixed when they are between 4 - 6 months old.
Speak to your vet in order to determine the best age to spay or neuter your dog.
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.