What do they remove when sterilizing a dog? - briefly
When sterilizing a dog, veterinarians typically remove the ovaries and fallopian tubes in females (ovariohysterectomy) or the testicles in males (orchiectomy). This procedure prevents unwanted litters and reduces certain health risks.
What do they remove when sterilizing a dog? - in detail
When sterilizing a dog, veterinarians typically remove the reproductive organs that are responsible for producing eggs or sperm. In female dogs, this involves an ovariohysterectomy procedure, where both the ovaries and the uterus (womb) are surgically removed. This process eliminates the ability of the female dog to become pregnant and significantly reduces the risk of developing certain reproductive health issues such as mammary tumors and pyometra (a life-threatening infection of the uterus).
In male dogs, the procedure is known as an orchiectomy. During this surgery, the veterinarian removes both testicles. This not only prevents the dog from reproducing but also reduces the risk of developing testicular cancer and certain behavioral issues, such as aggression and marking territory within the home.
Both procedures are performed under general anesthesia and require careful post-operative care to ensure a successful recovery. It's important for pet owners to discuss these procedures with their veterinarian to understand the benefits, risks, and aftercare requirements specific to their dog's health and wellbeing.