Dog Neutering in Oklahoma City, OK: What You Need to Know

Deciding whether to neuter or spay your dog can seem to be a complicated choice, especially when you consider when you should do the procedure. Luckily, we have compiled everything that dog owners need to know about spaying or neutering their dog into one place.

Neutering dogs can be a great way to reduce the likelihood of unexpected litters, which also helps reduce pet overpopulation in the United States. However, the choice of spaying or neutering your dog is completely up to you. We recommend that everyone consults with their veterinarian before deciding to do the procedure to figure out the best option for you and your pet.  

In this article we will be explaining everything that a dog owner needs to know about spaying or neutering their dog. We will be explaining the benefits of neutering, when you should neuter your dog, what the surgery and recovery is like, and more. Here is what you need to know about dog neutering. Let’s get into it!

When is Neutering Your Dog a Good Idea?

Although you do not necessarily need to spay or neuter your dog, there are some instances where it might be a good idea. For example, sometimes intact dogs can have some behavioral issues due to their hormonal cycles. As a result, many people neuter their dogs to avoid this problem.

In addition, having intact males and females can pose a problem as well as they will likely try to mate. If you are not aiming for puppies and you plan on having multiple dogs in the same area together then spaying and neutering them is always the best option. After all, no one wants the responsibility of a litter of puppies when you weren’t planning for one.

Due to the variability of circumstances, it is always recommended that you consult with your vet if you are not sure if spaying or neutering your dog is a good idea. A vet will be able to steer you in the right direction and address any concerns that you might have.

When Should You Neuter Your Dog?

For most dogs it is recommended that you get them neutered at around six months of age. However, when you should neuter your dog may depend on their breed and sex. As a result, you should always ask your vet when the best time to neuter your dog is, as they will give you a good recommendation for your dog specifically. This is because for some dog breeds it is recommended that you wait longer than six months to spay or neuter them. As for female dogs that have already gone into heat, you will always need to wait until they are not in heat to spay them.

What Do You Need to Know About the Surgery?

Many dog owners will likely wonder how risky this surgery is. Although this is an extremely common procedure that is done all the time, there is still some risk involved due to the need for the dog to go under general anesthesia. This is mostly for dogs with underlying health problems. As a result, your vet should do a routine blood test before the surgery to ensure that your dog does not have a medical condition that could potentially complicate the surgery.

As for cost for spaying or neutering procedures, they can vary depending on how large your dog is, your vet, and where you are located.

What About Recovery?

Your dog will likely be a little out of it for the day after surgery, and this is completely normal. Giving your dog lots of rest and providing them with calming toys and activities are great during this time. You will need to prevent your dog from running, jumping, and active play for about ten days after surgery to prevent them from opening their incision. For this reason you may want to keep your recently neutered dog separate from other pets, and you might also need to keep their cone or surgery shirt on to prevent them from licking the incision site.

Your vet will give you pain medication, and they should give you some instructions on how you should care for your recovering pet over the next couple of weeks. Be sure to ask questions, and do not be afraid to call your vet if you have any questions after you have left the animal hospital. You should call your vet immediately if you notice swelling, redness, discharge, or a foul odor coming from your dog’s incision sight. Similarly, you should also call your vet if your dog is vomiting, has diarrhea, or is exhibiting any other strange or troubling symptoms.

Your Vet is a Great Resource

The veterinarians at Hefner Road Animal Hospital are a great resource to know what your dog needs for their health and lifestyle. Call (405) 773–5557 to talk to a vet about neutering your dog in Oklahoma City, OK!