Saturday 9 AM to 4 PM
Saturday 9 AM to 4 PM
Neutering Your Pet
What does neutering your pet mean?
Considered a major operation, neutering, or castrating, is a surgical procedure that involves the removal of the male animal’s testicles under general anesthesia. Once altered, the male will no longer be able to produce offspring. During the surgery, a small incision is made and the testicles are removed. Sutures are then placed, and your pet is able to wake up from anesthesia.
At what age should my pet be neutered?
We recommend neutering at about 6 months of age, or as early as possible.
What are the advantages of neutering my pet?
- Aids in the fight against over-population
- Reduces the risk of prostate cancer and prostatitis (inflammation of the prostate)
- Reduces the risk of hormone-related diseases such as perianal adenomas (a tumor of the sebaceous glands around the anal area)
- Eliminates the risk of testicular cancer, the second most common cancer in males
- Abates sexual urges; usually decreases the “roaming” behavior
- Reduces certain types of aggressive behavior
Are there any disadvantages to neutering my pet?
No. Most of the perceived disadvantages are untrue. The most common misperception is that the pet will gain weight and become more passive and less alert; especially as it relates to working and hunting breeds. Obesity is the result of over-feeding and not getting enough exercise, both of which are controllable.
**Neutering your pet does NOT cause a change in personality, guarding instincts, intelligence, playfulness, or affection**
