When can a dog be sterilized – how is the procedure, postoperative care and the cost of surgery

The content of the article

• What is dog sterilization
• Why do I need a dog ovariogysterectomy
• Why do I need a dog ovariogysterectomy
• When can a dog be sterilized?
• At what age
• Is it possible to sterilize a dog during estrus?
• After childbirth
• How is the sterilization of dogs
• Sterilization methods
• How much does a dog sterilize
• Care after surgery
• Complications after sterilization in dogs

They brought a dog and decided to insure themselves against the risk of unnecessary offspring? The ideal solution is to sterilize dogs, during which the doctor removes the female organs of the reproductive system. These include the ovaries and the uterus. So the animal can no longer have children. For an experienced surgeon, such an operation is one of the ordinary procedures worked out to the smallest detail..

What is dog sterilization

First you need to understand the difference between castration and sterilization. The first surgical method involves depriving an animal of its reproductive function by removing the testes, and the second is a violation of reproductive function without the need to remove the sex glands. In the domestic plan, castration is applicable to males, and sterilization is applicable to girls. Removal of the uterus and ovaries is done through an incision that is made in the abdominal cavity. Today, this procedure is one of the most popular ways to prevent the appearance of offspring..

Why do I need a dog ovariogysterectomy

A traditional method of sterilization is a method such as ovariogysterectomy. There are practically no age restrictions on its use, while it is suitable for dogs of any breeds and sizes, whether it be a small shepherd or a large Japanese dog. After sterilization, the pet does not feel any attraction, cannot become pregnant, the estrus completely stops. In addition, thanks to this procedure, you can protect your pet from sexually transmitted diseases and reduce the risk of genital tumors.

Why do I need a dog ovariogysterectomy

As mentioned above, sterilization of a bitch is a necessity if the owner does not want her to bring offspring. The fact is that sometimes there is nowhere to attach newborn babies. In addition, in this way, municipal authorities can deal with the problem of stray animals. Sterilization is a method of preventing diseases that often result in death. According to statistics, unsterilized animals live less than sterilized counterparts.

When can a dog be sterilized?

The procedure can be performed at almost any age. To achieve the desired result and reduce all possible risks associated with the health of the pet, it is best to perform it as soon as possible – preferably before the first estrus. At the same time, one should not forget that the operation due to the use of anesthesia involves anesthetic risks, and therefore an too old dog may not tolerate it.

At what age

Opinions of veterinarians on this issue vary greatly. Some experts recommend a similar procedure at the age of 4-5 months, while others – from 8 to 10 months, i.e. after the first estrus. But in general, their opinions agree on one thing – it is not worthwhile to carry out the operation until the animal is 4 months old. This is due to the fact that the internal organs of the dog are still developing, and early removal of the uterus and appendages can adversely affect neighboring organs. As for the second threshold, it is recommended to sterilize knots up to 5-6 years, because old dogs do not tolerate anesthesia.

Is it possible to sterilize a dog during estrus?

Surgery is a complex question that cannot be answered unequivocally. Everything in this case depends on the individual characteristics of the dog’s development. A correctly selected time depends directly on the specialist, who must decide when to sterilize the animal. Only he can choose the right time and carry out the procedure without risk to the life and health of the knot.

After childbirth

Before contacting a medical institution for help, find out if it is possible to sterilize an animal after childbirth if it is already in adulthood. Sterilization is allowed within a week after delivery, so that the owners can get rid of systematic leaks and random dog mating. That is, the bitch during the period of exacerbation of the sexual instinct will not try to escape in search of adventure.

How is the sterilization of dogs

In order for the bitch to no longer have hormonal surges that lead to intercourse and pregnancy, some preparation may be required at the preliminary stage. So the owner needs to conduct an examination of the animal, make an ECG and take tests – this is necessary so that during the operation there are no complications, and to make sure that the animal’s body is completely healthy. The operation itself is carried out with general anesthesia for 40-60 minutes. Before it, the animal can not be fed for 6-8 hours.

Sterilization methods

The price of dog sterilization depends not only on the chosen clinic, but also on the method used. Ovariogisterectomy is the best of all possible humane ways to deprive the bitch of the opportunity to become pregnant. During an ovariogisterectomy, the surgeon removes the uterus and ovaries in one block. Otherwise, the left ovaries can continue to function, and all the benefits of the procedure will be reduced to zero. If the uterus remains, then subsequently it can provoke the formation of a pyometer.

In addition to ovariohysterectomy, there is also an ovariectomy. After performing this procedure, aimed at the termination of reproductive function, the pet becomes infertile, with persistent genitals and the estrous cycle. That is, estrus will not stop, and the hormonal background will form the appearance of a false pregnancy. But this type of operation is less popular..

In addition to the cavity method, softer – endoscopic – is widely used. With it, you can perform an operation without a wide dissection of the integument through point punctures or physiological holes. For manipulation in this case, laparoscopy is used. The advantages of this approach are less blood loss, less severe trauma, a decrease in the possibility of infection, and a short rehabilitation period..

How much does a dog sterilize

Before you change the nature and behavior of your pet and reduce its aggression, which is a consequence of hormonal surges, you need to answer the question: how much does it cost to sterilize a dog? The average cost of the procedure in Moscow, depending on the breed and size of the pet, is from 5 to 10 thousand rubles. Sterilization at home for stocks and in the budget option can be from 6 thousand rubles, and VIP – about 12 thousand rubles.

Care after surgery

Since the operation is performed using general anesthesia, a pet will need a certain period to exit from it. Postoperative care consists of stitch care and dog monitoring. Sutures are removed only 10-14 days after the procedure. Here are general guidelines for caring for a puppy or already mature dog that you need to consider:

• During the release of the pet from anesthesia, it is necessary to turn the dog over to the other side every half hour and monitor its condition.
• The operation site, regardless of the type of suture (in some clinics I practice self-absorbable sutures), must be protected. For at least 7 days, the wound must be protected by blanket.
• To treat wounds, it is necessary to use a special antiseptic solution. In the first few days, injections and special medications are often prescribed..
• Special collars should be worn to prevent restless joints..
• If after 5 days the suture is reddened and moist, then the owner should consult a veterinarian. The appearance of these symptoms signals the onset of the inflammatory process.
• At first, the pet does not need to be physically loaded and at the same time do not let it jump from / to high altitude. Keep calm.
• Care must be taken that the animal does not lie on wet or cold surfaces..

Complications after sterilization in dogs

A dog can be confronted with a number of problems after sterilization. Before you pay attention to the indications for the operation on the genitals, you need to find out about the possible occurrence of ailments after it. At the same time, it is impossible to predict how the pet’s body will behave upon the introduction of anesthesia. Therefore, carefully weigh the pros and cons. Sterilization of dogs can result in the following complications, some of which are caused by specialist negligence:

• chronic urinary incontinence;
• inflammation of the joints;
• seam rupture;
• infection
• internal bleeding;
• postoperative hernia.