Why Neuter? Why at full bone growth?

Neutered dogs tend to live longer and have fewer behavior problems

The Nakusp Vet Clinic recommends neutering large dogs once they have hit or come close to full bone growth. Male dogs rely on their testosterone to have proper bone growth. If they do not have their testicles, they have a much lower level of testosterone, meaning they are more likely to get bone cancers or hip dysplasia. If the testicles stay in for to long the chances of testicular and prostate cancer increases. So basically, you are choosing your cancer. If the dog is trying to escape or starts acting out of the norm we can neuter sooner then full bone growth. Check out this post for more information:

-> Neutering your Male Dog – Veterinary Partner – VIN

-> Effects Spay and Neuter Timing on Cancer in Dogs – Veterinary Partner – VIN

Historically, we neutered/spay all dogs at 6 months.  For larger breeds where it can be logistically managed, we try to wait till bone growth is done (this depends on breed of dog).  However, if not logistically feasible, then we sterilize at 6 months.

It comes down to what risks and tendencies you can manage with your pet, and what cancers we will be monitoring for moving forward.

There is no medical reason to permit dogs or cats to go through heat cycles.  Every time they do, it increases the risk of mammary tumours.  In larger dogs, it MAY decrease the risk of bone tumours.

All the Reasons you Should Spay your Female Dog

1 – Mammary Cancer Prevention

After the first heat, the incidence of tumor development climbs to 7% and after the second heat the risk is 25% (one in four!). It is easy to see that an early spay can completely prevent what is frequently a difficult and potentially fatal form of cancer. Many mammary tumors are stimulated by estrogens; removing the ovaries, the source of estrogens, will slow down the tumor from spread.

2 – Pyometra Prevention

Pyometra is the life-threatening infection of the uterus that generally occurs in middle-aged to older female dogs in the six weeks following heat.

3 – Attracting male dogs

Female dogs come into heat every 8 months or so. There is a bloody vaginal discharge and local male dogs are attracted. Often there is an offensive odor. All of this disappears with spaying, not to mention the inconvenience of an unplanned litter of puppies to house, clean, feed and adopt out.

Historically, we neutered/spay all dogs at 6 months.  For larger breeds where it can be logistically managed, we try to wait till bone growth is done.  However, if not logistically feasible, then we sterilize at 6 months.

It comes down to what risks and tendencies you can manage with your pet, and what cancers we will be monitoring for moving forward.

Pre-surgery Instruction

1 week prior to surgery

For surgeries we provide a complimentary pre-visit dose of Gabapentin. We will call you 1 to 2 weeks prior to your appointment in order to get an updated weight on your pet so that the prescription can be picked up prior to the surgery date.

Gabapentin decreases pre-operative anxiety (also known as wind up), allowing sedation to take effect more quickly and reducing the amount of anesthetic gas needed during the procedure. Additionally, it helps with post-surgical pain management.

Gabapentin does not sedate the patient: rather, it helps to significantly alleviate their anxiety and reduces nerve pain.

Day before and morning of surgery

Gabapentin needs to be given 10 hours (or at bedtime the night before) and 2 hours before the appointment.

Please do not feed any breakfast the morning of the surgery. We need them to have an empty stomach to reduce the chance of vomiting. You can give a small treat with the gabapentin if it will make it easier to give. We will always feed your animal after the surgery. They can have as much water as needed. You can bring your favorite treats.

You will need to drop your animal off at the clinic at 8:30 AM. It is very helpful if your animal uses the bathroom prior to coming into the clinic. Please allow 15-20 minutes for the intake interview. You will then have the option to stay with your animal for sedation if you wish. If you have any questions feel free to give us a call.

Recovery Information

Recovery for all spays is 10-14 days of taking it easy (leash walks only, no ponds, swimming or jumping) so the tissue may heal. The cone or gown must stay on for that 10-14 days. With mature animals who have lactated, there are an increased number of small blood vessels that increase the risk of bruising at the site. She may need some cool compresses post surgery to reduce this side effect.

These tips should be followed to ease your pet’s recovery:

• Do not allow your pet to run or jump for the next few days.
• Examine the incision daily to ensure proper healing.
• Keep your pet confined from others, and allow them to have a quiet resting place.
• Prevent your pet from licking the surgical site
• Wait at least 10 days after surgery to bathe your pet.
• If your pet’s incision has opened or if you notice excessive swelling, redness, or discharge, contact our office immediately.