Spaying my 6-year-old Lab: Is it safe and how long is recovery?

Thanks for using PetCoach. I do recommend spaying even for adult or older dogs. The primary reason is the risk of pyometra, a fatal uterine infection. Every time she goes into heat she is at risk. Here is more info, so you know what to watch for if you opt not to spay her https://veterinarypartner.vin.com/default.aspx?pid=19239&id=4951481 As she is a littler older, there are things you can do to make surgery a bit safer. Even if not required by her veterinarian, a full exam and bloodwork should be performed prior to surgery. This helps to assess if there are any diseases that may affect her under anesthesia or her ability to heal. She should receive IV fluids during her surgery. Here is more info on spay https://veterinarypartner.vin.com/default.aspx?pid=19239&id=4951464 Even at this point in her life, Cookie can benefit from spay surgery.

Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Personally, if she has had vaginal bleeding for 6 months that isn't normal and I would spay here. Anesthesia and surgery is a bit riskier for geriatric dogs and cats but as long as blood work was done, safe anesthesia and monitoring equipment is used she should do well. I wish you and Pinky the best!

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! You absolutely did the right thing. Spaying dogs is the best option to help prevent certain conditions such as pyometra and reduce the possibility of mammary tumors. Usually dogs recover very quickly after surgery and she is expected to be fine after surgery. It may take her a few days to be back to normal but that would be the expectation. Rest comfortably that you did the right thing. Good luck and have a good night!

Most dogs are in heat for an average of 2-3 weeks. Keep her away from any intact males during this time. The surgery itself will likely take 20-30 minutes (o complete. She isn't too small or too old. Your veterinarian may recommend pre-anesthetic blood work and a pre-anesthetic exam to confirm good health. Recovery will take about 2 weeks. Try to limit excessive running, jumping or rough play. These activities could place undue stress on the incision and prolong recovery. A crate can be used if necessary. She will probably have an e-collar (cone) on when she is discharged to prevent licking or chewing of the incision. You should get complete discharge instructions from your veterinarian when you pick up Precious.

Hello. I can understand your anxiety, & there are some studies to suggest that some breeds are better off being neutered after a year or so of age, but for the most part, there is no danger & there is no greater likelihood of advanced disease in these animals. I always remind people that many women need to have hysterectomies for various medical reasons, & while the vast majority of these surgeries happen after puberty, there is no known significant increase in cancer, Alzheimer's, endocrine disease, etc. in these women. You will be hard-pressed to find any veterinarian who has been in practice longer than 20 years who will say there has been an uptick in medical problems in neutered animals. Pets are living longer & healthier lives because of this, & while we are still not making a huge dent in the pet overpopulation program & the number of puppies & kittens euthanized each year, we are trying. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

Hi there and thanks for posting on Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Precautionary measures include getting a physical exam and blood sample taken prior to surgery to make sure there are no underlying health issues that would compromise her ability to make through surgery or handle the anesthetic given during surgery. During surgery, her blood pressure, respiratory rate, and oxygen saturation should be monitored. IV fluids are typically given during surgery to help maintain blood pressure and provide hydration. After surgery, her incision may be iced every 2-3 hours and she may be given antibiotics and anti inflammatory medications. Her incision should be check within 24 hours after the surgery to ensure there is no bleeding occurring or fluid building underneath the incision. A recheck exam should be conducted within 10-14 days after surgery. I hope this helps!

While any anesthesia carries a risk, spaying is generally a very safe procedure. The risks of anesthesia increase as a dog ages (I'm specifically referencing senior dogs like 10 years and older), but there are few risks for a young and healthy puppy. Your vet is right she could be ill in the future if you don't spay her. Not spaying her leaves her at risk of developing a pyometra in the future. This is an infection of the uterus that is fatal without treatment, and spaying the dog is part of the treatment of a pyometra. That surgery is high risk due to the severity of the illness in the dog from the infection, and it costs thousands to perform. In addition, dogs who are spayed are at an increased risk of developing mammary tumors. Of these mammary tumors, 50% of them are malignant. For her health, it is best to spay her now. I would speak with your vet about getting it done. I hope this helps!