How to Have a Dog Spayed or Neutered

Having your pet spayed or neutered provides many benefits, both to your dog and to you. Dogs who are fixed generally live longer and healthier lives. Do the responsible thing by having your dog spayed or neutered before 6 months of age.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Understand the benefits of spaying or neutering your dog. Altered dogs of either sex have a far lower rate of cancer and other issues of the reproductive organs. Females who aren't spayed before they go through their first heat have a 30 percent higher risk for developing breast cancer. Males are far less likely to roam and are more docile when they've been altered.

2. Contact your veterinarian. If he hasn't seen your dog before, he will probably want to examine the animal first to ensure she's in good health before the procedure. Also inquire about fees for spaying or neutering your dog at this time.

3. Expect your pet will have to spend at least the day under your veterinarian's care. Depending on the size, age and general health of the dog, they may be able to go home the same day, or may have to spend the night at the vet's office.

4. Be aware that your pet may require some special care while recuperating from the surgery. It's best to have the procedure done late in the week, so that you can spend the weekend at home giving your pet the tender loving care he deserves.

5. Follow your vet's instructions for post-surgical care, which might include a special diet for a few days, pills for pain management and a quiet place for the animal to rest. Stitches may also have to be removed 7 to 10 days after surgery.

6. Investigate low-cost spay and neuter programs in your area if you find you cannot afford your veterinarian's fees for this procedure. Most communities have programs in place to help people spay or neuter their pets, as it ultimately saves taxpayer dollars in the form of caring for unwanted puppies.