Our veterinarians understand that the decision to have your dog neutered can be emotional for many pet parents. If you're unsure about whether or not you should get your dog fixed, our Exeter vets can offer some information that may put your mind at ease.
Why Neutering Your Dog is Important
As a responsible and caring dog owner, it is important to consider having your dog neutered. Although it may not seem urgent, this procedure can benefit both you and your furry friend.
Neutering can help control problematic or unwanted behaviors such as roaming, mounting, and aggression. Additionally, it can provide various health benefits for your dog and prevent the occurrence of unwanted litter.
Approximately 3.3 million dogs enter US shelters every year! Having your dog neutered is the best way to help reduce the number of unwanted pets in your neighborhood.
Reproductive Surgeries Are Common & Considered Safe for Dogs
Neutering surgeries are commonly performed by veterinarians and are considered safe for both dogs and cats. However, as with any medical procedure requiring anesthesia, a risk is involved.
During the surgery, your veterinarian and surgical team will carefully monitor your pet for any signs of complications or illness that may arise.
The Difference Between Spay & Neuter Surgery
'Spaying' and 'neutering' refer to surgical procedures that cause your pet to be unable to produce puppies. In many places, both kinds of procedures may be referred to as 'neutering' or 'fixing' your dog.
Neuter: The neutering or castration of male dogs involves the surgical removal of the testicles while the dog is under general anesthesia.
Spay: Spaying is the surgical sterilization of a female animal through the removal of both ovaries and the uterus while under general anesthesia.
Ways to Comfort Your Dog After Surgery
After your dog undergoes neuter surgery, they should experience minimal pain. However, we understand you may want to help your pet rest and remain comfortable.
Here are a few things you can do to provide comfort to your dog after their neuter surgery.
- Ensure your dog has a quiet place to recover indoors and away from other animals and small children.
- Try to prevent your dog from jumping, running, or climbing stairs for two weeks after their neuter. Follow your vet's instructions closely regarding activity after these procedures since your pup may require further restrictions.
- Even if you feel like your dog looks sad, it's important to have them wear a post-operative jumpsuit (if your vet prescribed it) or cone to prevent them from licking their incision site. Licking their surgical incision may lead to infection.
- Do not bathe your dog (or allow your dog to swim) for at least ten days after spaying or neutering to allow the incision to heal as quickly as possible.
- Check your dog's incision site daily for possible signs of infection to ensure their incision is healing well.
If you notice any redness, swelling, or discharge at the incision site after your pet's surgery or if the incision has opened, it is important to contact your veterinarian immediately.
Additionally, if your pet shows signs such as lack of energy, reluctance to eat, vomiting, or diarrhea, you should call your vet for advice. It is always better to be safe than sorry when it comes to your furry friend's health.
How Long Your Dog Will Be In Pain After Neutering
When you pick up your dog from the vet's office after surgery, it may seem tired, queasy, or different from its usual self. These are normal side effects of general anesthesia.
However, your pet should start behaving more like themselves the next day and show only minor signs of discomfort. The pain associated with spaying or neutering surgeries is usually not severe may last for just a few days, and should completely subside after about a week.
But if your pet continues to experience pain or discomfort for more than a couple of days, it's best to contact your vet for further advice.
Helping With Your Dog's Pain After Neutering
During your dog's surgery, they will be placed under anesthesia and won't feel any pain. Once they wake up, our veterinarians will provide further medication as required. Pain medications will be administered to your dog through injection, which should provide long-lasting relief for 12 to 24 hours after surgery.
Your vet will also prescribe take-home pain medications to help relieve your dog's post-operative pain. Commonly prescribed medications include Torbugesic or Rimadyl. Following your veterinarian's instructions carefully when giving your pet pain medication is crucial. Never give your dog any human pain medication, as some of these can be toxic and harmful to your pet.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.