Debunking the Myths about Neutering and Spaying

A lot of dog owners are against neutering and spaying because of all the wrong reasons. Some of them are afraid that their pets are going to be overweight. Others, on the other hand, fear a personality change in their pets cause by the surgical process. As of today, there is no scientific proof that neutering and spaying can cause this. By far, the benefits of neutering and spaying outnumber its risks.

What is neutering?

In simple terms, neutering is the surgical process of disabling the dog’s reproductive system. It’s done for many reasons including the prevention of overpopulation in pets. A lot of dogs are put into homes and shelters because no one is willing to take care of them. To avoid the risks of stray dogs running loose, the still-manageable numbers of them are kept in shelters. However, when there’s no more room in the shelter, and no one is willing to adopt them, they’re “sent to sleep”.

When you decide to have your pets neutered, you actually help manage dog populations. Neutering is actually not gender specific and it applies to female dogs as well. Neutering in male dogs is equivalent to castration, while in the females of the species it means the removal of the uterus and the other reproductive organs.   

What should you do before the surgical process?

Once you’ve decided to have your pet neutered, you should have them checked up by the vet. While it has its benefits, spaying or castration can cause complications when the dog is not in his/her prime. Having your dog neutered while they’re still 4 or 5 years old is actually wise because it can help prevent reproductive ailments once they get older. Dogs also have hormonal cycles, and when they’re no longer sexually active, their reproductive systems may acquire cancers and other complications. Studies show that neutered dogs age better than intact ones.

Your vet will probably ask you to give your pet drops or supplements to help release stress. As much as possible, your dog should be relaxed and well before s/he is set on the operating table. Usually, vets prescribe doses of Vitamins A, C, and E, but you should consult them first to know the portions you should be giving your pet. Ask your vet too about what you can give your pooch to relieve the stress and pain after the operation. You should be prepared to care for your dog round-the-clock immediately after the surgery.

Cutting costs 

If you’re a little hard up and you can’t afford your vet’s services just to have your dog neutered, you can also consult the ASPCA. They’d be more than happy to neuter your pet for you for a more affordable fee. The doctors affiliated with the ASPCA or similar nationally recognized shelters are just as capable of carrying out the surgical process so there’s no need for you to worry.

Generally, though, even private vets are willing to lower down their price tags when the need arises. Remember, your vet is in the business for the love of animals. If s/he thinks that your pet really needs it, s/he can probably arrange a more manageable payment scheme for you.