How are adult dogs sterilized? - briefly
Adult dogs are typically sterilized through a surgical procedure called ovariohysterectomy for females and orchiectomy for males. This involves removing the reproductive organs under general anesthesia to prevent future litters and reduce the risk of certain health issues.
How are adult dogs sterilized? - in detail
Sterilization of adult dogs is a common surgical procedure that involves removing the reproductive organs to prevent unwanted litters and reduce certain health risks. This process is typically performed by veterinarians under general anesthesia. Here’s a detailed overview of how adult dogs are sterilized:
-
Pre-Operative Preparation: Before the procedure, the dog undergoes a thorough physical examination to ensure it is healthy enough for surgery. Blood tests may also be conducted to evaluate liver and kidney function. The veterinarian will discuss the procedure with the owner, including any potential risks and post-operative care instructions.
-
Anesthesia: On the day of the surgery, the dog is typically fasted overnight to prevent vomiting during anesthesia. Once at the clinic, the dog is given a pre-anesthetic medication to relax it and make the induction process smoother. General anesthesia is then administered using injectable drugs or inhaled gas, depending on the veterinarian's preference and the dog’s health status.
-
Surgical Procedure:
- Male Dogs (Orchiectomy): The veterinarian makes a small incision in the scrotum to expose one of the testicles. The testicle is then carefully separated from its surrounding structures and removed by cutting the vas deferens and blood vessels. This process is repeated for the other testicle. After both testicles are removed, the incisions are closed with sutures or surgical staples.
- Female Dogs (Ovariohysterectomy): The veterinarian makes an incision along the dog’s ventral midline, typically just below the umbilicus. The abdominal muscles are separated to access the reproductive organs. The ovaries and uterine horns are identified and carefully ligated (tied off) to prevent bleeding. These structures are then removed by cutting them free from their attachments. Once the ovaries and uterus are out, the incision is closed in layers using sutures or surgical staples.
-
Post-Operative Care: After surgery, the dog is closely monitored as it recovers from anesthesia. Pain medications are typically administered to manage any discomfort. The dog is usually kept at the clinic for a few hours before being released to its owner with detailed instructions on post-operative care, including wound care and activity restriction.
-
Recovery: Most dogs recover quickly from sterilization surgery. Within a week or two, they can resume normal activities. The sutures are typically removed 10-14 days after the procedure. During this time, it is crucial to prevent the dog from licking or biting at the incision site to avoid infection or dehiscence (opening of the wound).
-
Follow-Up: A follow-up visit with the veterinarian may be scheduled a few weeks after surgery to ensure proper healing and address any concerns or questions the owner might have.
Sterilization is a safe and effective way to manage pet population control and can also provide health benefits for dogs, such as reducing the risk of certain cancers and infections. It is important for dog owners to discuss the procedure with their veterinarian to ensure it is the right choice for their pet.