How to lower a dog's testicles? - briefly
To lower a dog's testicles, you typically need to perform a procedure called orchiectomy or castration. This is usually done by a veterinarian under general anesthesia, involving the removal of one or both testicles through a small incision in the scrotum.
How to lower a dog's testicles? - in detail
Lowering a dog's testicles, also known as cryptorchidism correction or undescended testicle surgery, is a common procedure performed by veterinarians to address health issues associated with retained testicles. Here’s a detailed overview of the process:
Pre-Operative Care
Before the surgery, your veterinarian will conduct a thorough physical examination and may recommend pre-operative blood tests to ensure your dog is healthy enough for the procedure. This is crucial as it helps in detecting any underlying conditions that might complicate the surgery or recovery process.
Anesthesia Administration
On the day of the surgery, your dog will be administered anesthesia to keep them comfortable and pain-free during the operation. Modern anesthetic agents are safe and effective, but the veterinarian will monitor your dog's vital signs throughout the procedure to ensure their well-being.
Surgical Procedure
The surgery itself involves several steps:
- Incision: The veterinarian makes a small incision in the groin area or the abdomen, depending on where the undescended testicle is located.
- Exposure of Testicle: Using surgical instruments, the veterinarian carefully exposes and isolates the retained testicle from the surrounding tissue.
- Ligation of Vessels and Ducts: The blood vessels and spermatic duct connected to the undescended testicle are identified and ligated (tied off) to prevent bleeding and potential infection.
- Removal or Relocation: In some cases, the veterinarian may choose to remove the retained testicle if it is non-functional or atrophied. If the testicle appears healthy, it might be relocated into the scrotum. This decision is based on several factors including the health of the testicle and the dog’s overall condition.
- Closure: The incision is closed using sutures that will dissolve over time. Some veterinarians may also use surgical glue to help with healing.
Post-Operative Care
After the surgery, your dog will be closely monitored until they are fully awake from the anesthesia. Pain management medications and antibiotics may be prescribed to prevent infection and manage any discomfort. Here are some key points for post-operative care:
- Restrict Activity: Your dog should have limited activity for 7-10 days to allow the incision site to heal properly.
- Monitor Incision Site: Check the incision daily for signs of infection such as redness, swelling, or discharge. If you notice any issues, contact your veterinarian immediately.
- Administer Medications: Ensure that all prescribed medications are given at the correct times and in the correct dosages.
- Prevent Licking: To prevent your dog from licking the incision site, an Elizabethan collar (e-collar) may be used temporarily.
- Follow-Up Appointments: Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments to ensure proper healing and address any concerns or questions you might have.
Long-Term Considerations
After recovery, it’s essential to consider the long-term effects of cryptorchidism correction:
- Fertility: If both testicles are retained, your dog will be infertile. If one testicle is normal and the other is undescended, fertility might still be affected.
- Testicular Cancer Risk: Retained testicles have a higher risk of developing testicular cancer, so regular check-ups are crucial.
- Hormonal Balance: The surgery can help in maintaining a healthy hormonal balance, which is important for your dog’s overall well-being and behavior.
By following these steps and adhering to the veterinarian's instructions, you can ensure a smooth recovery process for your dog after cryptorchidism correction surgery.