[Judy in Waco]

Originally Posted by Judith Ann

What is pyometrea? Guess I could Google it. I was neutered at 35 years old and haven't contracted it yet. Seems that we are often controlled by fears of something or another happening, and usually those fears make someone else wealthy, like insurance companies and veterinarians. She might suffer in some other way if she is neutered besides obesity. Her hormones will be off balance. I recall when my males were neutered, their darling personalities changed. One of them died at eight years because he had an enlarged heart and liver. It broke my heart and I can still weep for him when I think of Pierre. We were really close.

First, Pyometria is an infection of the uterus. It is a condition in dogs, not humans. Now this is where I get a little confused. I think you're saying you had a hysterectomy or tubal ligation. Is that what you're talking about? Only male dogs are "neutered", so I don't really see the connection you're making here.

While there may be some personality changes in male dogs that are neutered and there can be problems with weight, both of those are the lesser issues here. Male and female dogs have different behavior issues involved in the process, but if you do the research (like I strongly recommend that everyone do for him or herself) you will find that the issues are much more extreme and complicated.

IF you have no intention of breeding or showing, then the health issues for both male and female dogs definitely lean toward having the procedures done. Intact (un-neutered) mature, male dogs also have personality changes that can be disturbing including....desperate attempts to get to females in heat anywhere in the vicinity, whining and crying, difficulty eating/loss of appetite, running out of doors and yards and across dangerous streets to get to females in heat, aggression, dominant behaviors and marking. Weight can be controlled. The other issues are more life-threatening in the long run.

Okay, I'm off my soap box here. Please take the time to read up on the issues. Recent research has honestly shown us how important it is to have our pets spayed and neutered.

Thank you.