Short Creek Puppies

Spaying & Neutering

The Pet Population Problem

*Every year, millions of unwanted dogs and puppies are needlessly destroyed.  The good new is that every pet owner can make a difference.  By having your dog surgically sterilized you will do your part to prevent the birth of unwanted puppies and you will enhance your pet's health and quality of life.

*What is Surgical Altering?

During surgical altering a veterinarian removes certain reproductive organs.  If your dog is a female, the veterinarian will usually remove her ovaries, fallopian tubes and uterus.  The medical name for this operation is an ovariohysterectomy, although it is commonly called "spaying."  If your dog is a male the testicles are removed and the operation is called an orchiectomy, commonly referrred to as castration or simply "neutering."

Benefits of Spaying & Neutering are great.

*Female dogs experience a "heat" cycle approximately every six month, depending upon the dog.  A female dog's heat cycle can last as long as 21 days during which your dog will leave blood stains in the house and may become anxious, short-tempered and actively seek a mate.  Spaying eliminates their heat cycle and generally reduces the negative behaviors that may lead to owner frustration and ultimately a decision to relinquish the pet to a shelter.  Most important, early spaying of female dogs may help protect them from serious health problems later in life such as uterine infections and breast cancer.

*Male dogs are capable of breeding at six to nine months of age.  Unaltered male dogs are likely to begin "markings" their territories by spraying strong-smelling urine on your furniture, curtains, and virtually any part of the house.  Also, given the slightest chance, males may attempt to escape from the home in search of a mate.  Dogs seeking a female in heat can become aggressive and may injure themselves and people by engaging in fights with other male dogs.  Neutering male dogs reduces the need  to breed and can have a calming affect that makes them less inclined to roam and more content to stay at home.  Neutering your male pet also improves his health by reducing the risk of prostate disease, testicular cancer and infections.

*What is the Best Age to Spay or Neuter?

*Your dog can be surgically altered at almost any age.  I recommend having it done prior to six months of age.

*Both operations lead to improved long term health, prevent unwanted litters and eliminates many behavior problems associated with the mating instinct.

*One female dog and her offspring can produce 67,000 dogs within 7 years.  Don't let this begin with you!

Will the Surgery Affect My Pet's Disposition or Metabolism?

*The procedure has no effect on a pet's intelligence or ability to learn, play, work or hunt.  Most pets tend to be better behaved following the operation, making them more desirable companions.  Contrary to popular belief, the surgery will not make your pet fat.

*A balanced diet and exercise will keep your pet from experiencing the health risks associated with obesity.  Your veterinarian can advise you on the best diet and exercise plans for your dog for each stage of its life.

Should I Breed My Female Dog?

*Contrary to what some people believe, getting pregnant - even once - does not improve the behavior of female dogs.  In fact, the mating instinct may lead to undesirable behaviors and result in undue stress on both the owner and the dog.

*While some pet owners may have good intentions, few are prepared for the work and mess involved in monitoring their pet's pregnancy, caring for the newborns, and locating good responsible homes for all the puppies, not to mention the cost.  Several complications can arise such as cesarian section, and possibly death of your female dog.  Are you prepared to miss work to take your female dog to the vet for a cesarian section?  That's if, you're lucky enough to be home when she starts into labor.  Your female may not claim her litter or she may not have enough milk or no milk for her litter.  Are you prepared to get up every two hours around the clock to feed these little ones?  Most females are very protective of their puppies and therefore their behavior changes to more aggressive and you or your children could be at risk for a dog bite.

Please, think carefully and do the research before you make the decision to breed your female dog.

The articles on this site have not been written by a veterinarian & should not be considered a replacement for veterinarian advice.  The articles are provided for informative purposes only.  While great care has been made in the creation of these articles, I cannot guarantee the accuracy or omissions on these pages.  If in any doubt whatsoever, seek professional advice.