The Myths and Truths of Sterilization
MYTHS
There are a number of myths surrounding sterilization of dogs.
Here are some of the more common myths that need to be dispelled.
- Myth : Having a litter is beneficial for a female dog
- Myth : Having a heat is beneficial for a female dog
- Myth : Allowing a female dog to have litters protects them from breast cancer
- Myth : Sterilization changes a dogs’ personality
- Myth : Male dogs are better security or watch dogs if they are unsterilized
TRUTHS
For Males:
This involves a simple and quick surgery where the testicles are removed through a small incision
Unsterilized animal have a strong desire to wander and roam to find a mate. This can lead to frustration and unwanted behaviour such as digging or other destructive patterns. Dogs that are out on the street are also more likely to be involved in car accidents .
Sterilization reduces territorial aggression, mounting and territorial urine marking. It also greatly reduces the risk of prostate cancer and eliminates the risk of testicular cancer (very common in entire aging male dogs). Neutering can help reduce dominance behaviour and aggression but does not change the inherent personality of your pet.
The ability to function as a watch-dog is unimpaired and may even improve.
For Females:
The surgery is more complicated than for the male dog and involves removal of both ovaries and part of the uterus.
Sterilization will reduce the mess that occurs when a female is on heat.
It also decreases the risk of mammary cancer, uterine cancer and uterine infection. The protective effect of sterilisation on preventing mammary cancer is most beneficial if sterilization is performed before the first heat which usually starts at somewhere between 7-9 months of age depending on the breed.
Sterilization also reduces roaming and dominant behaviour in female dogs and may decrease aggression. It will however not change the personality of your pet.
Most important is that sterilization prevents unwanted pets. A single female (with average litter size of 6 puppies) will give rise to 1458 puppies within 7 years.
Conclusion
Sterilization is extremely beneficial to your animal’s health. Most sterilization are performed at 5-6months of age, although RSPCAs and pounds may perform early sterilization at approx 12 weeks of age.
It is never to late to sterilize your pet and there are always health benefits at any age.
Sterilization is a day procedure, so your pet can go home that same afternoon.
If you live in the Swan Valley in Western Australia, give us a call to discuss if sterilization is right for your pet.