Dog spaying and neutering are both topics that have divided opinions of pet owners in Dubai and worldwide. Some dog owners are against these procedures, while some say that it’s the responsible thing to do.

Many veterinarians advise that pet owners sterilize their dogs, as these procedures have health benefits. Still, you make the final decision whether to spay or neuter your pets.

Let’s discuss spaying and neutering so you can decide whether to proceed with these procedures. 

Spay vs. Neuter: What’s The Difference?

Spaying and neutering are both sterilization medical procedures performed on animals. 

Spaying is done on female animals, wherein the ovaries and sometimes the uterus are removed. Neutering is the removal of a male animal’s testes. 

Both spaying and neutering disable an animal from reproducing. Still, these procedures are entirely safe as long as licensed professionals do the procedures at vet clinics in Dubai that have sterile facilities. 

Why Would a Dog Need Spay Surgery?

There are many reasons why a dog needs spay surgery. In some parts of the world, laws mandate that pet owners spay or neuter their pets, but there are other reasons why a dog would need spay surgery in Dubai.

Behavioral and Psychological Benefits of Spaying 

• Reduces aggression

Aggressive behavior can sometimes stem from hormonal changes, and spaying can lower these episodes.

• Lowers the likelihood of roaming behavior

When female dogs are in heat, they often try to find mates. When there’s no male dog nearby, the female dog might try to wander off or roam to find one, which can lead to injuries or even getting lost. When it’s spayed, then it would reduce these risks.

• Becomes calmer

Spaying can make a dog calmer since the reproductive hormones won’t be present to influence anxiety or nervousness.

• Decreases territorial behavior

Hormones can also encourage a dog to mount or mark its territories. Spaying can lessen these tendencies, which may lead to fights and tension with other dogs.

• Avoids heat-related stress

During a dog’s heat cycle, it may experience discomfort and stress. A spay surgery can eliminate these discomfort, leading to a much happier and healthier life for a dog.

Physical Health Benefits of Spaying 

• Prevents uterine cancer and infections

Spaying includes the removal of a dog’s uterus. Because of this, the risks of getting any uterine-related illness, which can happen mainly in unspayed senior dogs, can be prevented entirely.

• Reduces the risk of breast cancer

When spaying is done before a dog’s first heat cycle, the risk of tumor growth can be reduced significantly. This is because the hormones that may cause this will not be present.

• Lengthens life expectancy

A dog’s average lifespan is about 10 to 15 years, depending on their breed and overall health condition. However, this can be lessened when health risks come into the picture. With spaying, the risks become lower and can even increase a dog’s life expectancy, as some dogs can live up to 20 years.

• Decreases risks of heat cycle complications

One complication that heat cycles bring is phantom pregnancy in dogs. This is when a female dog shows pregnancy symptoms even when it isn’t. When this happens, a dog will behave differently and even produce milk, which may lead to extreme depression.

• Prevents unwanted pregnancies

As much as we adore puppies, allowing the reproduction of too many dogs can lead to overpopulation. Spaying can decrease the number of unwanted puppies and dogs that are often abandoned, as many pet owners aren’t prepared to care for more than what they signed up for.

The Risks of Spaying And Neutering

The effectiveness of dog spay surgery will greatly depend on how well the procedure is performed. This is why you must be sure of the veterinarian and pet hospital or clinic to which you bring your dog. 

Whether in Dubai or other parts of the UAE, don’t settle for vets just near your area. You must research to find the best veterinarian for your pet.

Like any other surgical procedure, spaying and neutering can have risks that may lead to complications as well. 

Possible Complications of Dog Spay Surgery

• Anesthesia complications

Some dogs, especially seniors, overweight, or those with existing health conditions, can have adverse reactions, such as breathing issues, to the anesthesia used during a spay surgery. 

• Infections

Dogs can get infections at the external incision site or internally when the surgery room and tools aren’t sterile like any other surgery. A dog spay infection can occur after the operation when owners do not care for their pets.

• Bleeding or organ damage

Since the operation will require the removal of some reproductive organs, there’s the risk of internal bleeding or damaging other organs in the dog’s body. 

• Slow recovery and post-op discomfort

A full recovery from dog spay surgery typically takes two weeks. However, it can be longer depending on certain factors, such as the dog’s age and weight.

• Hormonal imbalance

Spaying might lead to hormonal imbalance as well, which can result in different conditions, such as weight gain.

Cost of Dog Spay Surgery

The cost of getting a dog spayed can vary depending on the vet clinic to which you decide to bring your pet.

The price range of dog spaying in Dubai, for example, may range from AED 1,000 up to AED 2,500. It may depend on the dog’s size, age, and other health conditions.

Though you might be on a budget, you should research the vet clinics and hospitals you’re considering. Remember that trying to save too much by getting the cheapest dog spay surgery might lead to higher costs when complications arise. Also, the most expensive services don’t mean they are the best.

It’s best to visit the clinics you are considering for your dog’s spay surgery. Look up reviews to see what other pet owners say about the veterinarians and their experiences with them. Also, you can ask for recommendations from other pet owners or communities you might belong to.

How to Prepare for Your Dog Spay Surgery

If you’ve decided to get your dog spayed and have already found a trusted vet to perform the procedure, it’s time to prepare your dog for the operation.

Here are things you must do to prepare your dog for spay surgery.

• No food and water: The vet will instruct you not to feed or give your dog water for at least 10 hours before the surgery. If this isn’t followed, the procedure should be rescheduled.

• Set up your home for recovery: Before the operation, it’s ideal to have a space where your dog can peacefully recover. Limit the space where your dog can roam to prevent it from running or jumping on furniture, which might cause complications.

Dog Spay Recovery and Aftercare

Most dogs take 10 to 14 days to fully recover from spay surgery. Though it might seem that they’re already fine within 48 hours, it’s advisable to keep a close eye on them for at least two weeks. 

• Always check the incision: Constantly check your dog’s incision for signs of swelling, redness, or discharge. This is crucial within the first week after the spay surgery.

• Limit or restrict activity: The last thing you’d want is for the surgical incision to reopen, as this can be life-threatening for your dog. It’s best to limit or restrict your dog’s physical activity for up to 14 days to avoid this from happening.

• Use an Elizabethan collar: This is also called an e-collar or dog cone. This will prevent your dog from biting or licking the incision, which can infect the wound or open the stitches.

• Follow the vet’s feeding guidelines: Your vet will most likely give you a set of guidelines for feeding your dog after the spaying procedure. It often includes small amounts of water and easy-digestible meals for two weeks.

• Thoroughly follow medication instructions: Your vet will also give instructions for your dog’s antibiotics and pain relievers. Note it down and ensure that your dog finishes the set of medications given by the vet.

• Limit full baths: The incision must always be kept dry. This is why you shouldn’t give your dog full baths as much as possible within the two weeks after the operation. If your dog needs grooming badly, ask for your vet’s advice on how to do this. 

Supporting Your Dog After Spay Surgery

Spaying is essential for your pet’s overall wellness and health. Supporting your dog after this procedure is crucial to ensuring its successful recovery.

Following your vet’s instructions and the aftercare guidelines can help limit the complications your dog might experience after the operation.

Remember that the vet and clinic you choose will play a significant role in the overall success of your dog’s spay surgery. Openly communicate with your vet regarding any doubts or concerns so you can provide the best care for your pet.

FAQs

Can you spay a dog in heat​?

Yes, spaying a dog in heat can be done. However, a responsible vet would advise you to wait until your dog’s heat cycle is over because spaying during a heat cycle can increase the risk of bleeding during the operation.

How long should my dog wear the cone after spaying​?

Your dog should wear the cone for about 10 to 14 days after spaying since the risk of complications from your dog biting or licking the incision can occur within this period.

How long after heat can you spay a dog?

Waiting at least two to three months after the dog’s heat cycle is recommended before scheduling a spay surgery. By this time, the dog’s hormone levels will return to normal, reducing the risks of complications.

Warning signs after spaying dog?

Some warning signs after spaying include swelling or discharge from the incision, decreased appetite, lethargy, vomiting, or diarrhea. Call your vet or bring your pet to the clinic immediately if you notice any of these signs.

Do spayed dogs have periods​?

No, spayed dogs do not have periods, as the procedure involves removing the dog’s uterus and ovaries.

How young can you spay a dog?

Most veterinarians recommend spaying dogs when they turn six months old, but others say it can be done as early as eight weeks. It’s best to consult your vet, as the advisable spaying age may depend on the dog’s size, breed, and health condition.