Dog Castrate
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Q. Should I castrate my dog?
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A. At the Paddock Vet Practice we advise that the benefits of castrating dogs far outweigh the potential problems. As such we recommend that all dogs not intended for breeding are neutered. This is consistent with the views of both the British Small Animal Veterinary Association and the RSPCA.
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Q. When to castrate?
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A. We normally advise 6 months old. However, certain giant breeds are slower to mature and as such we may advise on what is best for your dog please feel free to contact us to discuss it.
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Q. What is done when your dog is castrated?
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A. When a dog is castrated an orchidectomy is performed. This means the testicles are removed. It is carried out under general anaesthesia as a day procedure only rarely requires overnight stay.
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Q. What are the benefits of castration?
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A. -Prevents testicular cancer
-Reduces the risk of developing prostate disease
-Helps reduce some forms of aggression
-Reduces dominance behaviour
-Makes him less likely to roam
-Reduces behaviour such as urine marking and humping
-Reduces the penile discharge. Entire dogs may get an unpleasant yellow/green discharge from their penis due to semen overflow.
-Prevents unwanted pregnancy
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Q. Are there any downsides of castrating?
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A. When a dog is castrated he may have a tendency to gain weight. This is due to changes in his metabolism. However, weight gain can easily be prevented by controlling his feed intake.
- Risks associated with general anaesthesia and surgery
Unfortunately there is always an inherent risk with any anaesthetic or surgical procedure. At the Paddock Vets we do all we can to minimise these risks by performing pre anaesthetic checks and a blood test if desired.
We use up to date anaesthetic protocols and anaesthetics are monitored with specialised equipment. We also provide all animals undergoing surgery with adequate pain relief both during and after the procedure.
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Q. How do I arrange to have my dog castrated?
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A. We perform routine neutering operations on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday.
- You can book your dog in over the phone. Should you wish to discuss whether and when to castrate your dog in more detail you are very welcome to come in for an appointment.
When you book your dog in for surgery you will be advised to starve her from 9pm the night before. To allow access to water until you bring him in and to take him for a short walk to allow him to empty his bladder and bowels.
- An admissions appointment will be made for the morning of his operation. At this time a nurse will go through an admissions and consent form with you. If you have any questions or concerns we are happy to discuss them fully at this time,
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Q. What to expect the day of his operation.
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A. -An admissions appointment usually takes about 10 minutes, but any queries you have can be discussed at this time.
- After admission your dog will be given a pre-medication prior to anaesthetic and surgery. If you have a very nervous dog and would prefer to sit quietly with him while his pre-medication works this can be arranged.
- Your dog will have his operation during the morning.
- You will be asked to ring at approximately 2:30pm that afternoon to see what time he will be ready for collection. A discharge appointment time will be organised then.
-Aftercare instructions will be discussed at this appointment. These instructions can also be found on our website under post-operative care.
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Q. Recovery from the castrate operation
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A. Due to the anaesthetic your dog may be sleepy and a bit unsteady for 12-24hours. During this time he should be allowed to rest in a war, comfortable draught free place.
- Allow him access to waster as soon as he gets home
-Give him a small light meal the evening after his surgery
-Normal appetite should return within 24-48hours
-Only gentle lead exercise should be undertaken for the next 10 days
-Keep his wound clean and dry (avoid muddy walks)
-Prevent licking of his wound. We use intradermal dissovable stitches in dog castrates when possible. This means your dog cannot pull his stitches out but it is still important not to let him lick his wound. There are a number of options to prevent wound licking, some more suitable for certain breeds dependant on their size and shape. Possible options include cone collars, blow up ring collars and bodysuits. The nurse who admits your dog will discuss what is most appropriate for your pet and/or which you prefer.
- A post operative check appointment will be made for 2-3 days after his operation. However, if you have any concerns prior to this please contact the surgery for advice.
-Your dog will be sent home with post operative pain relief for you to give orally at home for a few days. Please follow the directions given for your pet.
