Should You Spay/Neuter Your Dog?
Many dog owners face the decision of whether or not to have their dog spayed or neutered. The dilemma is one that people sometimes grabble with for many reasons. Some fear that the surgery would be too expensive or that it would change the personality of the dog.
Other owners simply believe that their pet is beautiful and that allowing him/her to generate puppies would mean that others could also enjoy such a beautiful pet. And of course, some people are breeders, and true breeders have a goal of continuing the purity and quality of the breed.
Before we go any further, you should learn what the words 'spay' and neuter' mean. Spaying usually includes the surgical removal of the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and uterus. During neutering of male dogs the testicles are removed.
There are many organizations that offer free or reduced fees on these procedures. Additionally, depending on where you purchase your pet, the procedure may already be factored in according to a contractual agreement. If the cost is a factor in your decision-making process then you can put in a Google search for 'free spay and neuter'.
In reality, most dog owners find that an altered pet is a better companion. The procedure does not change their basic personality. A watch dog will still be just as territorial as ever, and a lapdog with a sweet disposition will remain just that. The difference will be that the male dogs will no longer
Male dogs are known to mark their territory and to escape from their yard in an attempt to mate with a female in heat. Roaming dogs in search of a mate are likely to become aggressive with other dogs, or even people. Another risk is that of running into traffic in search of a female. Neutering can reduce those instincts and have a calming effect.
Females come into heat approximately every six months. During that time (which can last for up to 3 weeks) she is likely to drip blood throughout your home and her temperament is likely to change. She may be short-tempered and even aggressive with other female dogs in the home and she is likely to actively seek a mate.
These procedures have been proven to prevent certain types of cancer and other health problems. But as with any type of surgery, there some risks involved, but the procedures rarely come with complications. Check with your veterinarian to decide the best age to have the procedure done. He/she will be able to discuss fees and surgery preparation, surgery itself, and aftercare. Typically the dog will stay at the veterinarian hospital for at least several hours or overnight.
Spaying and neutering is good for your pet and for you. Your pet will be safer and happier in some ways and you will have the peace of mind in knowing that you are not contributing to the millions of pets that are needlessly euthanized every year.
Other owners simply believe that their pet is beautiful and that allowing him/her to generate puppies would mean that others could also enjoy such a beautiful pet. And of course, some people are breeders, and true breeders have a goal of continuing the purity and quality of the breed.
Before we go any further, you should learn what the words 'spay' and neuter' mean. Spaying usually includes the surgical removal of the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and uterus. During neutering of male dogs the testicles are removed.
There are many organizations that offer free or reduced fees on these procedures. Additionally, depending on where you purchase your pet, the procedure may already be factored in according to a contractual agreement. If the cost is a factor in your decision-making process then you can put in a Google search for 'free spay and neuter'.
In reality, most dog owners find that an altered pet is a better companion. The procedure does not change their basic personality. A watch dog will still be just as territorial as ever, and a lapdog with a sweet disposition will remain just that. The difference will be that the male dogs will no longer
Male dogs are known to mark their territory and to escape from their yard in an attempt to mate with a female in heat. Roaming dogs in search of a mate are likely to become aggressive with other dogs, or even people. Another risk is that of running into traffic in search of a female. Neutering can reduce those instincts and have a calming effect.
Females come into heat approximately every six months. During that time (which can last for up to 3 weeks) she is likely to drip blood throughout your home and her temperament is likely to change. She may be short-tempered and even aggressive with other female dogs in the home and she is likely to actively seek a mate.
These procedures have been proven to prevent certain types of cancer and other health problems. But as with any type of surgery, there some risks involved, but the procedures rarely come with complications. Check with your veterinarian to decide the best age to have the procedure done. He/she will be able to discuss fees and surgery preparation, surgery itself, and aftercare. Typically the dog will stay at the veterinarian hospital for at least several hours or overnight.
Spaying and neutering is good for your pet and for you. Your pet will be safer and happier in some ways and you will have the peace of mind in knowing that you are not contributing to the millions of pets that are needlessly euthanized every year.
