Dogs usually reach sexual maturity about 8 months after birth. Bitches experience their first menstruation at this time, and twice a year thereafter, which is known as “estrus” and is a time when pregnancy is possible. When a male dog reaches sexual maturity, he will engage in a number of actions to induce estrus in his bitch, such as barking, traveling to places where bitches are present, and fighting with other male dogs. For this reason, male dogs should be neutered before sexual maturity, about 5 to 6 months after birth.
Even if the dog is over a year old and misses the best time to be spayed or neutered, there is no need to worry too much. Neutering at this time will have little effect on the dog and may cause a slight change in the dog’s personality.
The spay/neuter surgery should be performed during the non-estrus period. If the dog is in heat, the surgery should wait until the heat is over to avoid heavy bleeding. Dogs can be spayed or neutered after their first heat, and it is also feasible as an adult. After sterilization, the dog should be given an Elizabethan collar to prevent licking of the wound, and the diet should be adjusted to reduce fat intake to prevent gaining weight.
Spaying and neutering methods include debridement (orchiectomy) in males and complete removal of the uterus and ovaries in females. Surgery should be performed when the dog is fully immunized and in good health. Choose a time when work is not stressful and you have time to care for your dog after surgery, such as a weekend or public holiday.
Fasting and water fasting for 6 to 8 hours before the operation, in order to prevent foreign matter from choking into the respiratory tract during vomiting. Do not rush to eat after surgery, as gastrointestinal peristalsis slows down after anesthesia, and eating too soon may lead to gastrointestinal inflammation. Limit strenuous exercise, stair climbing and excessive eating until the wound is fully healed (about 10 to 14 days) before bathing. If there is blood oozing from the wound, it may be a wound disintegration and should be followed up immediately.
Successful spaying and neutering will take the dog out of heat and the dog will usually be more docile and obedient after the surgery.
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