What is done during dog sterilization? - briefly
Dog sterilization, commonly known as spaying for females and neutering for males, involves surgically removing the reproductive organs. In female dogs, this typically includes the removal of both ovaries and the uterus; in male dogs, it entails the removal of the testicles.
What is done during dog sterilization? - in detail
Dog sterilization, also known as spaying in females and neutering in males, is a common veterinary procedure aimed at preventing unwanted pregnancies and reducing certain behavioral issues. The process involves surgical removal of the reproductive organs under general anesthesia. Here's a detailed breakdown of what occurs during dog sterilization:
Pre-operative Care: Before the surgery, the veterinarian performs a thorough physical examination to ensure the dog is healthy enough for the procedure. Blood tests may be conducted to assess organ function and detect any underlying health issues. The owner is typically advised to withhold food from the dog for several hours before the surgery to minimize the risk of vomiting under anesthesia.
Anesthesia Administration: Once the dog is prepared, general anesthesia is administered to render the animal unconscious and pain-free during the procedure. This is usually done via injection, followed by the maintenance of anesthesia through a gas inhalant delivered through a tube placed in the trachea. Vital signs such as heart rate, respiratory rate, and oxygen saturation are closely monitored throughout the surgery.
Surgical Procedure: For female dogs (spaying), an incision is made on the abdomen, typically just below the umbilicus. The veterinarian then locates the ovaries and fallopian tubes, carefully clamping and cutting them to prevent bleeding. In some cases, the uterus may also be removed, depending on the veterinarian's preference or specific health concerns. The incision is closed using absorbable sutures.
For male dogs (neutering), an incision is made in the scrotum, and each testicle is individually extracted along with a short segment of the vas deferens and epididymis. The incision is then closed with sutures or surgical glue. In some cases, especially for larger breeds, the veterinarian may opt to perform an open-castration technique, making a small incision in the abdomen to remove each testicle individually.
Post-operative Care: After the surgery, the dog is closely monitored during recovery from anesthesia. Pain medication and antibiotics are often administered to manage discomfort and prevent infection. The veterinarian provides detailed instructions for post-operative care at home, which typically includes limiting activity, monitoring the incision site for signs of infection or irritation, and ensuring the dog does not lick or chew at the sutures. A follow-up appointment is usually scheduled to remove any non-absorbable sutures and assess the healing process.
Long-term Benefits: Sterilization offers numerous long-term benefits for dogs, including preventing unwanted litters, reducing the risk of certain reproductive cancers (e.g., mammary tumors in females), and mitigating behavioral issues such as aggression and roaming tendencies. It is a responsible choice that contributes to overall pet health and well-being.