Neutering Your Female Dog.

by Young Veterinary Partnership.

 

Neutering Your Female Dog

Keyhole VS Routine Spay - What's best for your dog?

 

Neutering your dog is a family decision and one that takes a bit of thought. Neutering is a very common procedure that we provide for both cats and dogs, but as with any surgery there are risks involved. Our team will be able to discuss the risks and benefits during a consultation, allowing you to make an informed choice on what is best for your pet. If you choose to proceed with neutering we will also discuss when is the best time for your dog to be booked in (Your dogs breed, age and timing of seasons may be considered).

Preventing unwanted pregnancy is usually the first reason for neutering, but did you know that un neutered females are also at risk of contracting a womb infection called a pyometra – If left untreated, the infection can quickly become life threatening. Neutering can also reduce the risk of some cancers and your female will have less urge to roam, in search of a mate. 

Keyhole surgery (laparoscopic spay) for neutering female dogs is a modern, minimally invasive alternative to traditional spaying, which we are proud to offer from our Ealing surgery. Instead of one large incision, the surgeon makes two or three tiny incisions to remove the ovaries using a camera (laparoscope) and specialized instruments.

What's the difference? 

  • Laparoscopic (keyhole) spay involves removing the ovaries (called ovariectomy).
  • Traditional spay (open surgery) usually removes both the uterus and ovaries (ovariohysterectomy).
  • Studies show that removing just the ovaries is equally effective in preventing pregnancy and eliminating heat cycles.

 

The Keyhole Procedure. 

  • Your female dog is placed under general anaesthesia.
  • Our nursing team will clip and scrub the surgical site to ensure maximum sterility of the surgical area.
  • A small incision near the belly button allows the insertion of a laparoscope (tiny camera).
  • Carbon dioxide gas inflates the abdomen slightly for better visibility.
  • One or two more small incisions allow instruments to remove the ovaries.
  • The incisions are closed with dissolvable sutures.

 

What are the benefits of Keyhole Surgery? 

 

  • Much smaller incisions → Meaning your dog will be in less pain and usually make a quicker recovery.
  • Lower risk of wound infection or complications → This is due to the size of the surgical incision sites.
  • Less post-operative discomfort → Many dogs are back to normal within 24 – 48 hours, although we will still recommend a restful period of around 5 – 7 days.
  • Smaller scars → Meaning reduced risk of infection.
  • Better visualization → For the surgeon (especially for deep-chested or large breeds).

 

And the potential drawbacks?

  • Keyhole Surgery is more expensive due to specialised equipment and additional training for our veterinary surgeons.
  • Please note, that your pet insurance policy is very unlikely to cover the costs of neutering your dog. 
  • If your dog weighs less than 10kg's, at present, we cannot currently offer keyhole facilities, although please check in regularly as we do hope to extend our weight range facilities soon.

 

Recovery Periods,

  • Dogs can walk the same day with both keyhole or routine spey surgery, although we strongly recommend taking them home by car following any type of surgical procedure.
  • Full recovery is typically 4–7 days following Keyhole Surgery, compared to 10 – 14 days for traditional neutering surgery.
  • We recommend restricting activities to lead walking until incisions are completely healed.

 

Is my dog a good candidate? 

  • Our current Keyhole Facilities are available for dogs with a minimum body weight of 10kg's.
  • Your dogs age, breed and temperament will all be considered and discussed prior to any surgery taking place.
  • All pets will receive a full medical examination to ensure they are fit and well prior to any general anaesthetic.
  • Particularly good for active dogs who would benefit from a faster recovery period.

 

We've been treating pets from across West London since 1950 and we are proud to offer a wide range in choice and facilities for your pets healthcare needs. During a consultation our friendly team will be able to provide you with individual advice tailored to your pets medical needs.

Would you like 10% off your dogs neutering surgery? Consider joining our Pet Healthcare Club now. Our Clubs include all of your dogs parasite protection - Fleas, worm and Lungworm prevention, booster vaccinations, two health examinations with a veterinary surgeon, two nail clips, two anal gland expressions PLUS 10 % off all other services that we provide.

Not yet a client? Register, for free with our independent veterinary practice here > Young Vets Register My Pet.