Shelby and Dr. DiehlOvariohysterectomy is the medical term for spaying or neutering a female dog. The procedure consists of surgical removal of the ovaries and uterus. If the ovaries are not removed during the surgery, the bothersome heat periods still occur even though pregnancy is impossible. Surgery is usually performed no earlier than 5 ½ months of age.

Though it is routinely performed, ovariohysterectomy is major abdominal surgery requiring general anesthesia and sterile operating technique. Prevention of pregnancy and heat periods is the main reason for the surgery, but the procedure is sometimes necessary for treating severe uterine infections, ovarian and/or uterine tumors, and some skin disorders.

What Are the Advantages?

• There will be no more heat periods.
• There will be no unwanted puppies.
• The uterine infections common to older dogs rarely occur.
• Mammary gland cancer seldom develops in dogs spayed before their first heat.

Winnie the Sharpei MixFrequently Asked Questions

1. Will it make my dog fat and lazy? No. Obesity is due to excessive calorie intake. Weight can be controlled with proper feeding and exercise.
2. Will it change her disposition, personality or intelligence? No. Dogs’ personalities do not fully develop until 1-2 years of age. If there is a personality change in a dog neutered at a young age, it would have occurred without surgery.
3. Are there any problems associated with spaying? A very small percentage of dogs have trouble holding their urine as they become older. This is normally controllable with medication.
4. Shouldn’t my dog have a litter first? No. There is no advantage in allowing your dog to have a litter of puppies.

Important Considerations After Surgery

• Do not feed your dog for 12 hours before and after admittance for surgery.
• Restrict your dog’s activity for 10 days after surgery.
• Suture removal may or may not be necessary in 10 days depending on the surgeon's suture pattern.

Notify the Doctor if Any of the Following Occur:

• Your dog removes a suture or otherwise irritates the incision.
• Your dog refuses to eat or is depressed after the first day home.
• There is a change in your dog’s general health.