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If you have recently adopted a dog or puppy whom you do not intend to breed, consider having them spayed or neutered. Veterinarians recommend spaying and neutering dogs and other pets to minimize the amount of unwanted strays in the area and ensure the health of your animal. If you’ve never had a pet that underwent this procedure, you may have a few questions. Below are answers to a few of the most common inquiries people have about the surgery.

4 Spaying & Neutering FAQs

1. When Should I Spay or Neuter My Dog?

Ideally, you should spay or neuter your dog before they reach puberty. Most veterinarians will recommend scheduling the surgery between five and nine months of age, although the procedure can be performed as early as eight weeks provided the puppy is healthy. Older dogs are also eligible, although they will need presurgical blood work if they are over the age of seven.

2. What Are the Health Benefits of This Procedure?

Beyond eliminating the possibility of unwanted litters, spaying and neutering offer a number of health benefits. Spayed female dogs are less likely to develop breast or uterine cancer, allowing them to live a longer, healthier life. Additionally, females will not go into heat, protecting them from a painful ordeal. Neutered males are less likely to become territorial or aggressive, and the procedure also safeguards them against testicular cancer.

3. Where Should I Take My Dog to Be Spayed or Neutered?

Most veterinary hospitals and clinics are equipped to spay or neuter dogs and other pets in-house. Depending on your dog’s age and health history, your vet may want to run some tests or administer vaccines before the procedure, and you may have to schedule a few consecutive appointments. The surgery itself takes just a few hours, and most pets go home the same afternoon.

4. Is There Any Special Aftercare I Should Know About?

spaying neuteringWith proper care, your dog should recover from the surgery in seven to 10 days. Immediately after the procedure, they may be tired or groggy as a result of the anesthesia, which should wear off in a few hours. In the days that follow, your pup will have to wear a cone to prevent them from chewing or rupturing their stitches. Your vet may also recommend limiting your pup’s activity to minimize the risk of injury.

 

If you are interested in spaying or neutering your dog or puppy, contact Rolling Hills Veterinary Hospital. With two locations in Columbia, MD, this veterinary clinic specializes in everything from pet surgery to grooming and boarding. For more information about their approach to veterinary care, visit their website. To schedule an appointment, call the Keene St. location at (573) 449-3791 or the Buttonwood Dr. practice at (573) 449-7387 today.

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