Overall, while laser neutering offers numerous benefits such as faster recovery times with minimal discomfort compared to traditional methods; appropriate post-operative care and attention must be given to ensure optimal results from this procedure. Age Is Also A Big Factor You should also consider the age of your dog before having him neutered. Laser neutering is a relatively new method of sterilizing pets that uses laser technology instead of traditional surgical techniques. Another ethical concern regarding laser neutering is its impact on animal welfare. However, these risks are mitigated when performed by trained professionals who adhere strictly to established standards and protocols. However, like any medical procedure, there are always potential risks involved. Some male dogs can be overly aggressive, especially when other male dogs are encountered. Natural look and feel: The procedure uses your body's own fat, which is softer and more pliable than silicone or saline implants. Here our Cordova vets share more about spaying your pet. That is one of the reasons why dog neutering is not recommended for most breeds until the age of 6 months. Provide your pet with a quiet place to recover indoors and away from other animals. Cats can suffer from painful toothaches and gum disease just like people, and often with few noticeable signs. Reduced bleeding to the cauterization of blood vessels as the laser beam cuts through the tissues. While some argue that it causes less pain than traditional methods, others question whether the use of lasers is truly necessary or simply a way to speed up procedures and increase profits. Dogs with dementia will usually start interacting differently with humans and completely forget all the obedience training they've gone through. Also, be sure to contact your vet if your pet is lethargic, has a decreased appetite, is vomiting or has diarrhea or any other concerns following their spay surgery. Part of the PetVet Care Centers Network. Since they are more mellow and not seeking a female in heat, they are calmer and stay closer to home. It will also reduce the aggressiveness seen in the dog over time without reducing their desire to be active and playful every day. To help with this decision-making process, Ive created a table outlining some key factors below:FactorsProsConsPain ReliefReduced post-operative painMay not be suitable for all animalsRisk ReductionsLower risk of infection and bleedingRisks associated with incorrect performanceHealing Time & ScarringMinimal scarring after healingIncreased cost compared to traditional methodsEffectivenessHighly effective procedureChance of missing cancerous cells. It reduces the mating urge. Also, it does not experience wearing out of the surfaces and works with high accuracy and precision. As veterinary professionals specializing in laser neutering, we understand that every pet is unique and requires individualized care. In its technical term, spaying is the surgical procedure of sterilization. Pros And Cons Of Physical Punishment In Dog Training, Pros and Cons of Clinical Decision Support Systems, Pros And Cons Of Supplementing With Formula, Pros And Cons Of Metal Detectors In Schools, Pros and Cons of Substance Abuse Worksheets, Risks associated with incorrect performance, Increased cost compared to traditional methods. As long as the dog receives a healthy diet and regular exercise, the act of neutering will not cause the dog to put on weight. One possible negative outcome of laser neutering is accidental burns or injuries caused by improper use of equipment or human error. Spaying your female pets can help to prevent a number of serious health issues and undesirable behaviors. Some dogs may have learned to lift their leg to spray, so theyll keep doing that after they are neutered. Furthermore, since the incision made by a laser is smaller than that made by traditional surgical tools, there is minimal scarring after healing. Actually, let's back up firstif bod-hair removal is your thing (it's . We're always accepting new patients, so contact our veterinary hospital today to book your pet's first appointment. However, there are also definite and proven advantages to fixing your dog. In conclusion, while there are inherent risks involved in any form of surgery, laser neutering presents several advantages over traditional techniques. If a male dog is listed as a purebred and has papers to support it, then neutering may not be the right choice. Neutering does involve a short general anesthesia. Let's dive into the health risks related to neutering your dog. Some vets believe that performing the surgery with the use of a laser helps to both reduce the risk of infection and cut down recovery time due to the cauterization of blood vessels as the laser beam vaporizes the cells and "cuts" through the tissues. Its important to speak with a qualified veterinarian who specializes in this technique to determine if its right for your pet. That means your dog will never be able to become pregnant, and there's no going back with this. Hemorrhage is not common when a skilled veterinary surgeon spays a pet, and the type of bleeding that can occur as a complication during spays cannot be stopped or prevented by using a laser rather than a scalpel. The practice of neutering pets varies greatly across the world, and in some cultures, it may be considered cruel or harmful. Furthermore, the heat generated by the laser seals blood vessels as it cuts through tissue, reducing bleeding and therefore post-operative discomfort. In summary, while laser neutering can offer numerous benefits over traditional methods such as reduced pain and better sterilization leading to faster recovery time; it is essential first to consider any potential risks. Veterinarians recommend special medication to deal with hypothyroidism in dogs. Spayed a dog often starts gaining weight at an increased rate after the procedure, most likely due to changes in metabolism and hormonal structure. While TNR (or Trap, Neuter, and Return) programs are a popular way to control the feral cat population, they come with some downsides. If there are any concerns about the healing process, contact your veterinarian immediately. Based on all the scientific data, it is clear that early neutering has more cons than pros. Spay-neuter the veterinary surgical practice of removing a dog's ovaries or testes is the norm for most U.S. dogs. Dog Neutering or Spaying A Dog: Pros and Cons (Backed by Science), When in heat, a female dog can have bloody discharge that will stain her coat and your furniture, her own dog bed, or dog crate. We hope that by providing a comprehensive analysis of this procedure, readers can make informed decisions about whether or not this option is appropriate for their furry friends.if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[250,250],'ablison_com-box-4','ezslot_5',630,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-ablison_com-box-4-0'); According to recent studies, there has been an increase in the number of pet owners opting for laser neutering. 11 Variable Universal Life Insurance Pros and Cons, 18 Major Advantages and Disadvantages of the Payback Period, 20 Advantages and Disadvantages of Leasing a Car, 19 Advantages and Disadvantages of Debt Financing, 24 Key Advantages and Disadvantages of a C Corporation, 16 Biggest Advantages and Disadvantages of Mediation, 18 Advantages and Disadvantages of a Gated Community, 17 Big Advantages and Disadvantages of Focus Groups, 17 Key Advantages and Disadvantages of Corporate Bonds, 19 Major Advantages and Disadvantages of Annuities, 17 Biggest Advantages and Disadvantages of Advertising. Recently there was a discussion on spaying and someone did the pros and cons of laser vs . It reduces the risk of prostate and cancer problems. In the subsequent section, we will explore how laser neutering compares with traditional methods of spaying/neutering pets. Before deciding whether laser neutering is right for your pet, its important to weigh up the pros and cons carefully. Neutering refers to the removal of both testicles from the scrotum through a small incision ("What is Spay/Neuter?"). A female in heat gives off chemicals that can be scented from a mile away. Neutering can reduce these behaviors because it changes the urge to mate. Spaying and neutering can save money over the long-run. This is what the prostate gland looks during ultrasound. Even though the terms neutering and spaying are used in veterinary medicine, the term neuter will most often refer to removing reproductive organs in the dog for both sexes. Then the incision will be closed using internal stitches, skin glue, skin staples, and/or stitches. Millions of pets have been spayed or neutered thanks to this one simple line. Do not bath your pet or allow them to swim for at least ten days after surgery. Low cost spay and neuter clinics also have some negatives to consider that are relative to being low cost. Less swelling at the surgical site. One significant advantage of laser neutering over traditional surgical methods is the reduced amount of pain experienced by the animal during and after the procedure. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet. The life expectancy in males has increased by 13.8% with neutering. One of the most common changes that is seen happens to the coat. The danger here is making an assumption that all dogs benefit from this procedure. Laser neutering is a modern technique that has gained popularity in recent years. The goal is to have fun more than it is to find a mate or expand personal borders. Additionally, these programs can be costly to operate . Some dogs may even experience an increased risk of suffering from an adverse reaction when given a vaccination. As with any procedure, there are pros and cons to consider before making the final decision to laser neuter an animal. Having your female dog or cat spayed is a responsible and loving thing to do for your pet, but should you have your pet laser spayed or spayed traditionally. The neutering process reduces these behaviors. One major advantage of laser neutering is its precision. Here are the pros and cons of neutering dogs to think about if youre considering this procedure for your pet today. It has been like this for decades. This is because lasers are less invasive than traditional surgery, allowing for smaller incisions with minimal damage to surrounding tissues. Overweight can lead to medical conditions such as arthritis, joint disease, diabetes and cardiovascular disease. What are the benefits of laser surgery? Spaying and neutering dogs and cats - along with other methods to encourage responsible pet ownership - helped to reduce pet overpopulation and euthanasia by the 1980s. Without these organs, ovarian cysts, uterine infections and cancer of the reproductive tract are no longer a concern. Pain management is an essential aspect of the postoperative care plan, and a veterinarian will prescribe medications to alleviate any discomfort experienced by the animal. Dogs that are neutered no longer have the risk of suffering from testicular cancer, a common form of cancer in dogs, later in life. Have your pets spayed or neutered.. Reduced Bleeding: The laser seals blood vessels as it cuts, reducing bleeding during the procedure and minimizing the risk of complications. 1. Most recent studies now show many more disadvantages to a dog neutering than we previously thought. Because the procedure itself has to be done using general anesthesia, there's a possibility that your pet will react poorly to this medication (7). Dog owners will usually have their puppies spayed or neutered around the age of 6 months or earlier. 1. While it is true that the procedure involves smaller incisions and reduces pain, pet owners still need to monitor their furry friends closely during the healing process. Your vet will ask you to restrict your dogs activity 7 to 10 days after the surgery. Pros and Cons of Neutering. This comes from the reduction in activity that is typical after the procedure. If you decide to find homes for your new puppies, that may prove to be much harder than you think. Additionally, using a laser for neutering provides greater precision when removing reproductive organs from an animal. It's ultimately up to you whether or not your dog needs either sterilization measure. . Neutering pets also improves their socialization skills with people. Pet laser therapy is a painless, non-invasive treatment that can be used to treat a wide range of conditions in animals. Comparing laser neutering to traditional methods, it is evident that the former has several advantages. Once your dog is spayed, you can say goodbye to doggy diapers and blood cleanup twice a year. Dogs that are neutered before the age of 12 months have an increased risk of osteosarcoma. As the above-discussed study shows, this condition may be why your dog is becoming overweight, and eventually, you might need to start dealing with dog obesity. Some dogs may benefit from being neutered later in life. If you grew up watching Bob Barker host The Price is Right, then you knew the show would be closed in the same way, every day. Experts used to believe, based on previous studies, that not only does neutering help in reducing unwanted behaviors in a dog, but it also helps in reducing prostate problems and improving a dog's testicular health. Today, our Cordova vets discuss the benefits of Wellness Plans and some things to consider. Most commonly cited two main reasons for dog neuteringare: Overpopulation of dogs. Learn more about these procedures to decide what's right for you and your canine companion. It is recommended that pets not engage in vigorous exercise for at least 10 days post-surgery. You can see this with behaviors that include leg humping and mounting other dogs of either gender. Neutering is a form of surgical sterilization for male dogs. Laser surgery. If neutered, the risk is highly reduced. The procedure requires less anesthesia compared to traditional surgery as well as fewer incisions. Open Menu You may have noticed your dogs need to lift his leg and spray. TOP #25: Debunking 8 Common Homemade Dog Food Diet Myths, TOP #26: Who Benefits from Homemade Dog Food the Most. Overall, it seems that it still is worth de-sex your dog as the pros of sterilization outweigh the cons. . READ:15 Tips on Dog Pregnancy and Whelping. It is also important to note that we may have financial relationships with some of the companies mentioned on our website, which could result in receiving free products, services, or monetary compensation in exchange for featuring their products or services. It is part of the healing process. But another study has shown that castration may increase the progression of tumors (11). There are ultimately no guarantees your dog will change certain behaviors after being neutered. You probably think about neutering or spaying your dog, but you're not sure if this is a good idea. In some situations, your vet may suggest doing so earlier or later. According to veterinarians, she will also be a much cleaner, calmer, and more affectionate dog. We hope these findings provide evidence-based guidelines for deciding the right age to neuter a puppy to reduce the risk of one or more joint disorders., Prof. Benjamin Hart from UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine (source). Colloquially, neutering doesn't necessarily mean that it applies to male dogs alone. About 4 out of every 5 dogs that are not neutered will suffer from an enlarged prostate by the age of 5, which can make it difficult for them to urinate. There are increased risks for hypothyroidism, cognitive impairments, and orthopedic disorders as well. In addition, since theres no need for sutures or staples with laser neutering, theres no risk of complications such as wound infections or suture reaction. I thank God for their dedication to helping and caring for those fury animals that can't speak for themselves. Veterinarians usually call this procedure either de-sexing dogs or fixing dogs. The removal of the testicles changes the hormonal balance that is within the male dog. If it's performed sooner, these veterinarians reasoned, surgical gonadectomy (aka, spaying and neutering) might just be faster, easier, safer, and cheaper. Although it is possible for undesired behaviors to disappear after this procedure, it is not guaranteed. We understand that product offers and rates from third-party sites may change, and while we make every effort to keep our content updated, the figures mentioned on our site may differ from actual numbers. However, these benefits do not come without some drawbacks which will be discussed further in the subsequent section. I also recommend listening to our editor Samatha's recent podcast episode on the pros and cons of neutering/spaying dogs and how people view this all-important surgery (below). With proper research and guidance from a trusted veterinarian, you can make an informed decision about whether laser neutering is the right choice for your beloved companion. The more heat periods she has, the greater the risk that she may be developing breast cancer. From everything I learned, I thought the laser was supposed to be less pain, and easier on the dog than with the knife spay. Neutering a dog reduces the likelihood of certain health problems There are many benefits to removing or neutering the testicles of a male dog. One of the most common surgical procedures we perform is a dog neuter, know medically as an orchectomy. For an excellent review of the pros and cons of canine sterilization, see Dr. Sara Fox Chapman's article in the fall 2021 Integrative Veterinary Care journal. The procedure always removes her ovaries and typically also removes the uterus. Licking could cause an infection. It happens when the surgery takes place before the bladder is fully developed. By choosing a reputable vet and an animal hospital that you trust the risks of complications due to the spaying surgery (whether laser or traditional) should be minimal. A neutered cat's metabolism will slow a bit. When in heat, a female dog can have bloody discharge that will stain her coat and your furniture, her own dog bed, or dog crate. That is why this procedure should be discussed with your veterinarian before a final decision is made. The neutering process takes that option away. A veterinarian puts the dog under anesthesia, makes an. Minnesota Pet Stores, Dog Parks, Grooming, And More, Michigan Pet Stores, Dog Parks, Grooming, And More, Muscle Relaxers for Dogs: What They Are and When to Use Them, Massachusetts Pet Stores, Dog Parks, Grooming, And More, 7 Best Dog Wheelchair for Rehabilitation [Updated 2023], Review: ValueBull Dog Chews Collagen Sticks & Yak Chews, How to Prepare Your Dog Before Spaying or Neutering, What to Pay Attention to and Expect After the Surgery. Whether you choose to have your pet laser spayed or traditionally spayed your pet will need some time to recover. Pros of Neutering a GSD. As a veterinary surgeon specializing in laser neutering, it is important to acknowledge that while there are benefits to using lasers for this procedure, there are also potential risks and complications. At the end of the day, what matters most is ensuring that your pet receives the best possible care, whether through traditional or innovative procedures like laser neutering. That is simply false, which is why every potential advantage and disadvantage must be carefully weighed to determine what the right course of action should be. OVE may be slightly quicker and cause less postoperative discomfort. By monitoring your pets activity levels carefully and ensuring they receive proper nutrition during their recovery period, you can help minimize complications and speed up healing times significantly without compromising safety or comfort levels. As veterinary professionals specializing in laser neutering, we understand the importance of balancing quality care and affordability for our clients. The procedure involves making small incisions and using lasers to remove the testicles without damaging surrounding tissues. It appears that spaying or neutering your dog much too early is very likely to cause joint. You can notice the differences in a male cat before and after neutering. Many studies have been coming out over the last five years showing how neutering and spaying dogs may actually be naughty for their health. Decreased Post-Operative Pain. One possible complication is the accidental burning of surrounding tissue during surgery, which can cause pain and discomfort for the animal post-surgery. Dogs are naturally protective of their territory. This article will look at the advantages and disadvantages of spaying and neutering dogs based on what veterinarians say and the most current research. Neutering cannot completely erase testosterone from your dog and behavior mostly comes from training and genetics. Your dog will also typically have to fast before the surgery to prevent nausea from the anesthesia. Similar to spaying your dog as a female, neutered male dogs can experience the case of hypothyroidism, and studies have shown that neutering will almost triple the risk of obesity, as was discussed above. The procedure has no effect on a pet's intelligence or ability to learn, play, work or hunt. Carolina Panthers . The urge to mate is reduced once the neutering process has been completed. The texture of their coat might change as well. Your breasts will look and feel natural, only with subtle enhancements in size and shape. Is there a Reason to Spay Your Dog Other Than to Prevent Pregnancy? As a responsible pet owner concerned about their pets welfare; one must also take into account safety concerns related to surgical procedures like these. What's more, they were dead sure that sterilizing these pets earlier meant they'd never add to the pet overpopulation problem by procreating. Spaying a female dog means removing her reproductive organs. It can cause urinary incontinence. How To Keep Your Cat's Mouth Clean & Healthy, The Benefits of Pet Wellness Plans & Other Considerations. There may also be an increased risk of infection if proper sterilization procedures are not followed before and after surgery. Pets should be kept calm and quiet in order to avoid opening up surgical wounds or causing additional trauma. Pros of Cat Teeth Cleaning Prevents dental problems such as gum disease, tooth decay, and bad breath. Normally, owners must keep the puppies with their mother until they are about 6 weeks old and then try to find a home for them. This comes from the lack of hormonal changes associated with their cycle. Spaying keeps your cat healthier. In summary, while there are certainly benefits associated with utilizing laser technology for pet neutering procedures, there are also some inherent risks involved just like with any other medical intervention. For canines who were neutered at the wrong age in their lives, or if the process was done poorly, studies show a high risk of hip dysplasia, problems with ligaments, and even the potential to develop bone cancer known as osteosarcoma, according to the above-mentioned studies. Even though only 7% of non-neutered males get testicular cancer, having your male dog neutered removes the risk. The surgery is even simpler than a spay. You can avoid weight gain and dog obesity issues by using an adequate amount of regular exercise, understanding dog food and proper nutrition, and otherwise providing your female canine with a healthy and stress-free lifestyle. 2. Laser neutering is a recent development in veterinary medicine that has gained popularity due to its many benefits. Neutering your dog has many benefits such as preventing unplanned puppies and reducing the urge to roam. It is common for dogs to bark less after being spayed or neutered. Some dogs can become more aggressive after being neutered. Most experts agree that you should spay your dog at around four to six months old. 3. Another benefit of laser neutering is quicker recovery time compared to traditional surgical methods. Close Menu. 9 Human Foods Dogs Cant Eat and Why (Based on Studies), Cushings Disease in Dogs: Symptoms, Diagnosis and Treatments, Swimmer Puppy Syndrome: How to Help Your Dog. Exercise restrictions are also necessary during the healing process after laser neutering. Many veterinary clinics now offer laser surgery as an alternative to the traditional . Eliminate or decrease the chance of a dog developing certain types of diseases. In a laparoscopic spay, your female dog will have her ovaries removed with a camera and vessel sealing device through a keyhole incision (ovariectomy). Even if the surgery goes off without a hitch, your cat could develop an infection, which could lead to an abscess or other complications. When you book an appointment to have your pet spayed be sure to ask your vet about the risks of surgery, as well as the recovery process. By eliminating the risk of pregnancy and several cancers and infections, your vet bills may be reduced significantly. Based on all the scientific data, it is clear that early neutering has more cons than pros. However, this investment can pay off in the long run as pets who undergo laser neutering typically require less medication during recovery and experience fewer complications overall. However, one aspect that pet owners often consider when deciding on the type of procedure their furry friend will undergo is cost. Pros 14-day waiting period for all covered conditions, even orthopedic injuries Offers exam fees and microchipping as standard inclusions for both plan levels 10% multi-pet discount Cons Highest . Neutering is the term used to describe removing the reproductive organs of a male dog. It prevents male dogs from impregnating females. While some vets may prefer the use of lasers to perform surgeries, others still prefer to use a scalpel. Many dog owners find themselves contemplating on this decision for a while and rightfully researching the Internet for all kinds of answers to common sense questions: Rest assured, these are all valid concerns of a responsible pet owner, and I will try to address them with evidence and expert opinions. RELATED:8 Laws All Dog Owners Should Be Aware Of. Spaying is the removal of the ovaries and uterus. Female dogs who are not spayed typically go into heat every six months, for approximately 2 - 4 weeks. This may put your cat at risk for becoming overweight. As we have discussed in the previous section, laser neutering is a relatively new technique that has been gaining popularity among pet owners. It is common for female dogs to have more consistent behavior after doing the procedure. In this case, a female dog'sovaries and uterus areremoved it's calledOvariohysterectomy. Ultimately one must make an informed choice that will best serve the health and well-being of their furry friend. Pros and Cons of Laser Neutering. Even though these types of cancers are already very uncommon (6) for female dogs to develop throughout their lives, many veterinarians advise that it's still a valid reason to spaying your dog, and it doesn't hurt to be safe. Vets use scalpels for many procedures and are skilled at doing so. When it comes to safety concerns regarding laser neutering, it should be noted that these issues tend to be rare when performed correctly by trained professionals in sterile environments. A flank approach can be used for OVE and OVH in cats and small dogs, though there is some evidence that it's more painful than a ventral midline approach and may be more technically challenging for OVH or for larger patients. Here is a look at the advantages and disadvantages of . Since neutering reduces the amount of testosterone, the hormonal changes can put the pet at risk for obesity. Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. Neutering keeps your dog from chasing females in heat. When these organs are removed, you will have fewer worries about your dog's health. Pros of Laser Neutering: Reduced Pain: Laser neutering typically results in less pain compared to traditional surgical methods, leading to a quicker and more comfortable recovery. One way to make laser neutering more affordable is by comparing prices from different providers in your area.