Bringing a new puppy or dog home is a huge commitment
and a three-fold responsibility. You now have a commitment
to your dog, yourself, and to your community. Spaying or
neutering your pet is just another responsibility that you
must think about when bringing a puppy or dog into your
home. And, if you’ve already brought one home, the time to
start thinking about you and your pet’s future together is
now.
Unless you are a professional breeder, there is no reason not
to have your dog spayed or neutered. Let’s take a look,
quickly, at the differences of each.
Spaying vs. neutering
A female dog is spayed and a male is neutered. The
operation is a removal of the animal’s reproductive organs.
The operation tends to be a little more expensive for female
dogs as the veterinarian has to make an incision and sew up
the animal’s lower abdomen. In a male dog, however, the
scrotum is opened and the reproductive organs are removed.
The operation is also a little quicker for male dogs. The age
and health of your dog will cause recovery time to vary.
A long time ago in the United States, older dogs were the
only one’s spayed or neutered as they had a greater chance
of survival than puppies. However, with advances in
sterilization, the operation is usually done when a puppy is
around six months of age. Some veterinarians will do the
operation a little sooner, around three to five months. Older
dogs can also be spayed or neutered, but you should talk to
your vet about the appropriate time, especially for female
dogs. The operation should occur well after a heat cycle
(Estrus).
There are many benefits to spaying or neutering your dog.
Female dogs undergo a heat cycle for six or seven days,
three times per year. While female dogs, unlike cats, remain
somewhat controllable during Estrus, it will save you
headaches, clean up, and every male dog in the
neighborhood coming over for a visit to your front yard.
Spayed or neutered pets live longer, happier and healthier
lives. Spayed dogs (females) have no chance at developing
uterine or ovarian cancer, as these organs have been
removed. Studies show that spayed animals have a less
likely chance of developing breast cancer.
Neutered dogs (males) are less likely to wander off and
explore. The dog will also be less aggressive in his play or
when outside on his own. He will not play as rough, nor
will he bite as often. This, of course, all depends upon the
training your dog receives as well.
Spayed or neutered dogs tend to be more affectionate and
loving. They usually display calmer temperaments and are
more enjoyable to play with and be around. Neutered pets
are less likely to urinate on every tree or post they pass.
Does it cause weight gain?
Some people believe that spayed or neutered animals tend to
have problems with weight gain. While spayed or neutered
animals tend to be more docile, there is no relationship with
the surgery and weight gain. In other words, it all depends
upon proper playtime (exercise) and diet, not whether your
pet is spayed or neutered.
There are many places that you can contact regarding
information or to schedule an appointment for your dog.
Contact an animal shelter, your vet or contact SPAY USA.
There are grants and monies available for those who may
not have the funds to pay for all of the surgery.
The responsibility rests with you. This small step will mean
a more fulfilling life for you, your dog and not to mention,
for your community.
About the Author:
Tina Spriggs is an expert dog lover whose lifelong interest in canines provides the motivation for her site. To learn more about dogs or to find gifts and toys for them visit her site at
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Copyright 2005. All rights reserved.
