Importance of Neutering/Spaying

Once you have finally decided to welcome a puppy into your family, there are many difficult decisions to be made, especially within the first year of its life.

Neutering/Spaying is probably one of the choices that need to be made at an early age. I am sure everyone wants to allow their puppy to have their own puppies but there are lots of disadvantages of not having the procedure done. Many veterinary doctors will encourage the choice in having the operation done. Not because they want to charge you but for the well-being in your dog's life.

Advantages: NO TESTICULAR CANCER!
- Male dogs (with a non-dominant/aggressive behavior) usually have a less desire to roam (when a female dog is in heat, they release pheromones which will attract male dogs), marking territory decreases, less chance in having an aggressive behavior.
- Male dogs (with a dominant behavior), neutering may not decrease the chances in having certain behavior characteristics. Neutering reduces the amount of testosterone but doesn't take it away. Behavior training will be needed if your dog has a dominant personality.
- Female dogs will not have the 6-month heat cycles, unwanted pregnancies, false pregnancies, less chances in uterine and mammary cancers.

If the surgical costs are too high at your primary veterinary's office, there are alternative practices that offer lower-cost procedures.

The ASPCA offers low-cost neutering/spaying for your furry friend. Log onto their website (www.aspca.org/aspca-nyc/mobileclinic) and find out when they plan to be in your neighborhood. I am sure you will have some strange feelings about going to a van but the procedure is quick and you'll be home in no time.

The North Shore Animal League also provides low-cost procedures from the basic wellness exams to other services (neutering/spaying, dental, micro-chipping, etc...) See below a link that will give you a breakdown of the cost and services that are provided. (www.nsalamerica.org/about/wellness-clinic-services-and.html)

There is also one more thing to consider after you have decided to neuter/spay your friend. The type of anesthesia used during the procedure. The one that was used my baby was where he could be woken up instantly if there were any complications. There is also the regular type of anesthesia that needs another injection to wake up your dog.

For the safety of your pet, it is always good to know exactly what will be done, what type of medication will be used, and the things that need to be done post-surgery.