Looking After
Your Pets Health

Spay

Spay is the common term for ovariohysterectomy (OHE). An OHE is performed to remove the ovaries and the uterus from a female dog or cat. Spaying pets is important in order to control the pet population an stop unwanted litters from being born. Other benefits include eliminating heat cycles and associated bleeding, reducing the risk of mammary tumors and eliminating the chance of developing a uterine infection (pyometra). Cats may be particularly frustrating if not spayed because they come into heat frequently.

It is advised that any patient undergoing anesthesia have blood work performed and receive an IV catheter with fluids. Blood work helps the doctor determine if there are any kidney, liver or other underlying conditions that should be addressed prior to an elective surgery. Fluids are given during anesthesia to help maintain hydration and blood pressure while also giving the doctor immediate access to the cardiovascular system in case of emergency. After the procedure, your pet may experience some discomfort, she will receive and injection for pain relief and oral medication will be dispensed to go home. She should not be allowed to run around after the procedure for at least 10 days and should be kept form licking at the area. Dogs that are allowed to run around and are excessively active are more likely to develop swelling or cause the incision to break down. There are a very small percentage of spayed female dogs that may develop urinary incontinence (leaking urine) as they get older. This is generally well controlled with medication and the benefits of spaying your pet greatly outweigh the risks.