The Canine Spay
by Dr. Scott A. Koenig, D.V.M.

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ANSWERS TO THE 3 MOST COMMONLY ASKED QUESTIONS

1. Why should I have my dog spayed?

Tumors.  Tumors.  Tumors.  As unspayed female dogs get older, they can develop ovarian, uterine and mammary cancer.  Spaying eliminates the chances of developing ovarian cancer and greatly reduces the chance of cancer of the uterus.  Mammary gland tumors are greatly influenced by the hormone estrogen, which is released during the heat cycle.  Dogs are 200 times less likely to develop mammary tumors later in life IF they are spayed before their first heat cycle.  If spayed before the second cycle, they are 12 times less likely, and 4 times less likely if spayed before the third heat cycle.

Pyometra is a life-threatening infection of the uterus that can develop during the weeks following a dog’s heat cycle.  This serious infection is most commonly seen in middle-aged to older dogs.  Spaying removes the uterus and prevents heat cycles, thus eliminating the chances of this deadly condition.

Thousands and thousands of unwanted dogs are euthanized at animal shelters across the country each day.  Spaying will prevent unwanted litters of puppies, which in turn will help reduce the number of dogs killed each year.  Another benefit is that your dog will never go into heat (i.e. no male dogs beating down your door, no bloodstains on your new white carpet, etc., etc….).   

2. What actually happens during the spaying procedure?

When the dog comes in, she is first given pre-surgical pain medication to help reduce post-operative pain.  She is placed under general anesthesia, intubated, shaved, cleaned and prepped for surgery.  Using sterile instruments and strict aseptic technique, an incision is made on the midline of the abdomen and the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and uterus are removed.  The abdomen is then closed and the dog is allowed to slowly awaken under the supervision of a trained staff member.  After the procedure, the dog is kept overnight to insure much needed quiet and rest.  They are sent home the following morning with four days of pain medication to be given by the owner. 

3. What changes should I expect after spaying?

The patient will resume normal activities within 48 hours.  Activity levels, behavior, friendliness, playfulness and socialization are not affected by spaying.  Some female dogs do have a tendency to gain weight following the spaying procedure.  As long as the owner monitors their pet’s weight and makes the appropriate dietary and exercise changes, weight gain should not be a problem.

Any non-breeding female dog should be spayed, preferably before their first heat cycle, to help ensure a longer, healthier and happier life with their loving family. 

By Dr. Scott A. Koenig, D.V.M.

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