Low Cost Dog Spay/Neuter

• What It Is: Spaying is the surgical removal of a female dog’s reproductive organs, specifically the ovaries and uterus. The medical term for this procedure is an ovariohysterectomy.
• How It Works: A veterinarian makes a small incision in the abdomen to remove the reproductive organs. The dog is placed under general anesthesia during the procedure.
• Purpose: This procedure prevents the female dog from going into heat and eliminates the possibility of pregnancy.

• What It Is: Neutering is the surgical removal of a male dog’s testicles. The medical term for this procedure is orchiectomy.
• How It Works: A veterinarian makes a small incision in the scrotum to remove the testicles. This procedure is also done under general anesthesia.
• Purpose: Neutering prevents male dogs from impregnating females and reduces certain behaviors associated with mating instincts.

1. Population Control:
   • Spaying and neutering help control the number of unwanted puppies and dogs and reduce the number of homeless dogs in animal shelters.
2. Health Benefits:
   • For Female Dogs: Spaying eliminates the risk of ovarian and uterine cancers and significantly reduces the risk of mammary (breast) cancer, especially when done before the first heat cycle.
   • For Male Dogs: Neutering eliminates the risk of testicular cancer and reduces the risk of prostate problems.
3. Behavioral Benefits:
   • For Female Dogs: Spayed dogs no longer go into heat, which means they won’t exhibit heat-related behaviors such as loud vocalizations, restlessness, or frequent urination.
   • For Male Dogs: Neutered male dogs are less likely to roam, fight, or mark their territory by spraying urine. Neutering also reduces aggressive behavior and the drive to find a mate.
   • Longer Life Expectancy: Dogs that are spayed or neutered often live longer, healthier lives, as they are less likely to develop certain diseases or injuries related to mating behaviors.

• Age: Spaying and neutering are often performed on dogs between 6 and 9 months of age, although it can vary depending on breed and health factors. In some cases, particularly with large-breed dogs, veterinarians may recommend waiting longer due to concerns about growth and joint development.

• After the surgery, dogs typically recover quickly, though they may experience some discomfort for a few days.  Recovery times for dogs may vary depending on their size and activity level. Larger, more active dogs may require a longer recovery period and more supervision to prevent them from overexerting themselves post-surgery.  Your vet will likely prescribe pain relief medication to help manage this. It’s important to keep your dog calm and prevent them from licking the incision site during recovery.  An E-collar is REQUIRED.

The spaying and neutering of dogs are safe and routine procedures that contribute to better health, improved behavior, and reduces the risk for dog overpopulation.