Spaying and Neutering

Spaying and neutering prevents a dog from mating and reproducing. For male dogs, this involves removing the testicles. For female dogs, this involves removing the entire uterus and ovaries.

Spaying and neutering can makes dogs better and healthier pets. The hormones involved in reproduction are strong and affect a dog’s behaviour. By removing these hormones, dogs have less desire to roam and urine mark their territory. It also helps to decrease aggression. Spaying and neutering helps prevent cancers of the mammary gland and testicles and a life-threatening condition in female dogs called pyometra (infection of the uterus). Spaying and neutering also helps prevent unwanted litters of puppies.

We recommend spaying and neutering small breed dogs (less than 50 lbs.) any time after 6 months of age. This is when their liver and kidneys are fully developed and able to handle the anesthesia for the surgery safely. It is also when they should have their adult teeth all come in and we can assess for problems with retained baby teeth. For large breed dogs (greater than 50 lbs.) we recommend waiting until 8-10 months of age. The reason for this is because it can help prevent arthritis later in life if we wait until the growth plates of their bones close. Of course, there are exceptions to these ages and a discussion with the veterinarian can decide what age is best for your pet.

The cost to spay or neuter depends on weight and age of the dog. This is also a good time to consider a microchip or baseline blood test. Please call to book a pre-surgical consultation to discuss these costs.