Quote:
Originally Posted by Ellie May  Spaying eliminates the chances of uterine cancer because it is removed.
It eliminates the chance of pyometra which is a serious issue.
If a dog is spayed before her first heat, they have less than a .5% chance of getting mammary cancer. If they are spayed after their first heat and before their second, the risk goes up to 8%. If they are spayed after their second and anytime thereafter, the risk is 26%. Of course there are a few downsides to spaying that are definitely worth reading about.
I didn't like the idea of Ellie having abdominal surgery and I didn't like the idea of pulling major body parts out but I decided to go ahead with it. Ellie's vet felt very strongly that it was best for her. The older the dog gets, the higher risk of pyometra. The treatment is generally an emergency spay when the dog is already having a severe infection. On top of that, if the uterus bursts or dumps, the pus can spill into the abdomen and I'm thinking it can cause peritonitis. It may be harder to maneuver in a small dog and remove it. Then again, the majority of dogs with pyo who have surgery should be okay. I just trusted that since her vet has been doing this for a looooong time and has Ellie's best interest in mind, it would be best to take her advice (especially since she has probably seen pyo quite a few times...). Ellie was six when she was spayed.
And yes, your dog should come home with pain meds or I would find a new vet.
And yorkie_mama22, that isn't rude at all. It is personal preference.  |
Thanks for the info. I was so unaware of the benefits of spaying. I am also glad to hear that since Maddie has had 2 heats, it is still okay. I am not sure she was big enough before her first heat.
Like you, the thoughts of the surgery is scary, but I want what is best.
Cute baby, by the way!