Spay and Neuter 101
Spaying and neutering are common procedures that have long-term benefits for pets and their owners. In addition to preventing unexpected litters, these procedures are proven preventive measures against many health problems that your pet may contract.
Why Should You Spay and Neuter your Pet?
During the process of spaying and neutering, reproductive tissue is removed from pets, thus curbing their instinct to breed. The procedure should be done within ages six to nine months depending on the breed of the dog or if you have a female and male dog within the same house. The benefits of this procedure are different for each sex:
Spaying
During this procedure, female pet have their ovaries, fallopian tubes, and uterus removed. Spaying your female dog or cat is healthier for it can lower the risk of cancer and prevent pyometra, a life threatening uterine infection.
Neutering
Also known as castration, the testicles and other structures are removed. With this procedure, your pet less aggressive and less likely to wander. Like spaying, neutering reduces the risk of cancer, specifically testicular cancer and prevents them from contracting an infection in their prostate gland.
Some common benefits between the two procedures is that sterilization not only increases their lifespan and reduces their desire to display dominance.
Recovery from the Procedure
Once you’ve gotten your pet neutered or spayed, you can ensure their comfort post-surgery with pain medication and a few tips:
Keep your dog inside and limit physical activity– To ensure the site of the surgery remains sterile during recovery, don’t let your pet outside and keep them away from other animals. During the recovery process, stop them from running or jumping off things in case they rupture stitches or cause more pain to themselves. Elizabethan collars are a great way to prevent your pet from licking the incision. This will keep the site free of infection and ensures a proper healing.
Bathe your pet after 10 days – To keep the surgery site clean and to prevent infection bathe your pet after 10 days. This ensures the surgical site remains clean and heals successfully.
If your pet is comfortable and energetic to play, they are doing okay. However, if you notice that your pet is lethargic, not eating as much, or is vomiting or has diarrhea, contact our Allen veterinarians immediately.
Contact Our Allen, TX Vet Today!
Country Creek Animal Hospital offers a range of services to keep your pet healthy and happy. We offer spaying and neutering services at our Allen, TX veterinarian clinic, contact us today to schedule an appointment.