Spay and Neuter Procedures
OVARIOHYSTERECTOMY (OVH/SPAY)
We strongly recommend an ovariohysterectomy (OVH/SPAY) for your pet. Several major problems can be avoided by having an OVH. Uterine infections can be eliminated and breast cancer can be dramatically reduced if the surgery is done early. This is not to mention that nearly 4,000,000 pets are euthanized annually due to overpopulation.
When an OVH is performed, the entire uterus and both ovaries are removed. This prevents the pet from coming into heat and from being attractive to male dogs and cats.
By removing the uterus, the obvious source of uterine infections is eliminated. By removing the ovaries, we remove the primary source of female hormone (estrogen). In female dogs and cats, estrogen is responsible for the development of breast cancer. Pets that have an ovariohysterectomy prior to their first heat have a less than 1 percent chance of developing breast cancer. If an ovariohysterectomy is done after one heat period, the incidence rises to 8 percent, and, if done after two heat cycles, the incidence rises to over 26 percent.
The surgery is relatively simple and safe. The pet is brought to the office in the morning and a complete physical exam, along with the necessary bloodwork, is done immediately before the surgery. Anesthesia is induced and surgery is done while a nurse monitors the patient throughout and after the procedure. The pet is usually released late the same day of the surgery. Pain medication may be dispensed and given at home. Activity is restricted and the sutures are removed one week later.
Neuter procedures
We strongly recommend neutering your pet. A reduction in prostate disease and perianal tumors, along with behavior modification, are just some of the advantages. The procedure does not alter personality; however, it can decrease the pet's desire to roam and other hormone related tendencies.
When your pet is neutered, both testicles are removed through a single incision made in the scrotum. The surgery is relatively simple and safe. The pet is brought to the office in the morning where a complete physical exam, along with the necessary bloodwork, is done immediately before the surgery. Anesthesia is induced and surgery is done while a nurse monitors the patient's vital signs during and after the procedure. Our doctors are among the first in the area to utilize a laser for this procedure. With the use of the laser, we are able to dramatically reduce the amount of bleeding, which reduces the amount of postoperative swelling. The laser also seals the nerve endings as it cuts, thus substantially reducing the amount of pain and postoperative discomfort. The pet is usually released later the same day of surgery. Activity is restricted for 7 to 10 days; if sutures are placed in the skin, they will be removed at that time.
During the surgery
While the pet is under anesthesia, we also have the opportunity to evaluate for any retained deciduous (baby) teeth. If these teeth are still present we recommend removing them to prevent overcrowding and malocclusion.
For larger breeds, we can also assess for hip dysplasia. This is a type of arthritis that can be very crippling as time progresses. A specific manipulation, called an "Ortoloni" can be done. If this is positive, it indicates the hips have too much laxity and an x-ray is necessary. Depending on the evaluation of the x-rays, we can make recommendations for follow-up plans.
If you would like further information about a spay/neuter procedure or you would like to schedule an appointment, please ask one of our nurses or receptionists. If you have any further questions please feel free to call us at 317-786-7923.
