If you have a female dog, you’ve likely heard of spaying. You may wonder what the procedure entails and whether it’s right for your furry friend. Spaying is a major but common surgery in which a dog’s ovarian and uterine vessels are tied off and her reproductive organs are removed to prevent pregnancy. While the operation might sound intimidating, getting your dog spayed offers a number of benefits. 

The Benefits of Spaying Your Dog

Because the procedure prevents your pet from becoming pregnant, it helps fight overpopulation and reduces the staggering number of dogs who are placed in shelters and euthanized each year. But the operation doesn’t just prevent pregnancy. It also helps protect your dog from breast cancer and pyometra, a potentially fatal uterine infection, especially if she’s spayed before she reaches sexual maturity and has her first heat cycle. Moreover, a spayed dog will not attract stray males or experience the bloody discharge and odors caused by heat cycles. 

How to Care for Your Dog Before & After Spaying

While the majority of dogs over eight weeks old can be spayed, the best time to do so depends on breed, health, age, and other factors. Ask your veterinarian about the right time based on your dog’s individual needs.

Once you schedule the surgery, your vet will discuss any dietary restrictions your dog might require in the hours leading up to the procedure. You can also ask about pain medication for after the surgery, though many dogs don’t need it, and how to care for stitches. If your dog repeatedly licks her stitches, use an Elizabethan collar to stop her. 

After your pet emerges from the operating room, you may notice some changes in her behavior. She might avoid eating because of nausea or seem lethargic for a few days. When her energy returns, you should restrict her physical activity until she recovers. Your veterinarian will provide more specific instructions on how to monitor her post-surgery behavior. 

To begin planning your dog’s spaying procedure or to learn more about the operation, contact the staff at Wahiawa Pet Hospital. For over 45 years, they’ve cared for Oahu’s dogs and cats. The pet hospital specializes in surgical procedures so you can rest assured when leaving your beloved pet in their hands. Visit them online to learn more about their services, or call (808) 621-7000 to schedule an appointment today. Don’t forget to ask about their active-duty military discounts!