From the desk of Dr. Katelyn Sharpe:
Well, hello again! As you may remember, a few weeks ago we discussed the importance of spaying your female dog or cat. However, neutering your male pet is just as important. So, let’s take a few minutes out of this crazy time of life with the COVID-19 pandemic, and discuss reasons why neutering is essential.
Neutering or Castrating is the process of surgically sterilizing, by removing both testicles. Just like spaying, this is a surgery that requires anesthesia. As with any anesthetic procedure, here at Glove Cities Veterinary Hospital, we require an extensive evaluation of your pet to try to eliminate any potential risks. First, a thorough exam is performed the day of surgery (and preferably at an appointment prior). Bloodwork is performed to ensure liver and kidney function is adequate and the electrolytes and cell counts are balanced. Based on the exam and bloodwork, an appropriate anesthetic protocol will be established for your pet to ensure the safest procedure.
But why should you neuter your dog or cat? There are multiple reasons, and the first of which is overpopulation. There are limited animal shelters, and even more limited space. However, there are a lot of animals without homes. Neutering prevents the population of dogs and cats from getting much larger and helps those without a home get a nice place to sleep at night. Another reason for neutering is to prevent unwanted behaviors, such as mounting, inappropriate urination (or even foul-smelling urine like with a tomcat), and aggression/fighting. Also, an intact male animal is more likely to wander away from home and get hit by a car. A final and most important reason for neutering is to prevent cancer. Intact males are more prone to multiple types of cancer, including prostate, testicular, and mast cell tumors. Unfortunately, these are commonly diagnosed at Glove Cities Veterinary Hospital, which makes it more important to discuss.
Well, another pet just arrived at our curbside service that is in need of my help. If you have any questions about neutering your pet, please do not hesitate to call or set up an appointment with myself or any of the other veterinarians. We would all be happy to go over the process and address any questions or concerns you may have.
Stay safe out there!
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The following photo is a picture of Dr. Sharpe and her male Bernese Mountain Dog, Riot. ?
