Introduction
Spaying, also referred to as ovariohysterectomy (OHE) or ovariectomy (OVE), is a widely performed surgical procedure for female dogs. It is an effective solution to prevent estrus, unwanted pregnancies, and various health complications. This guide provides detailed insights into the indications, benefits, surgical methods, and frequently asked questions about spaying to help dog owners make well-informed decisions.
Why Should You Spay Your Dog?
Spaying offers numerous advantages beyond preventing unwanted litter. Here are the key benefits:
Health and Behavioral Benefits
- Reduced Risk of Mammary Tumors: Spaying before the first heat cycle lowers the risk of mammary tumors by up to 99%.
- Prevention of Pyometra: This life-threatening uterine infection is common in unspayed dogs.
- Elimination of Reproductive Disorders: Spaying prevents uterine, ovarian, and vaginal cancers, cysts, and congenital abnormalities.
- Management of Hormonal and Skin Conditions: It helps control diabetes, epilepsy, and skin issues like generalized Demodex.
Indications for Spaying in bitch
Spaying is recommended for the following reasons:
1. Preventing Estrus and Unwanted Pregnancies
- Eliminates heat cycles, which can be messy and stressful for the dog and owner.
- Reduces the problem of overpopulation by preventing unwanted litter.
2. Preventing Reproductive Diseases
- Mammary Tumors: Early spaying drastically reduces the risk.
- Pyometra: A common uterine infection that can be lethal if untreated.
- Reproductive Cancers: Removes the risk of ovarian, uterine, and vaginal tumors.
3. Treating Existing Health Issues
- Pyometra: Emergency spaying is often necessary to save the dog’s life.
- Uterine or Vaginal Prolapse: Corrects these abnormalities surgically.
- Uterine Torsion or Trauma: Addresses these critical conditions effectively.
4. Managing Congenital Abnormalities
- Corrects structural defects in the uterus or vagina.
5. Controlling Hormonal and Skin Disorders
- It helps manage conditions like diabetes, epilepsy, and skin diseases such as generalized Demodex.
Considerations in Spaying in bitch
Preoperative considerations
- HCT (Hematocrit)
- TP ( total protein)
- In patients >5–7 y, consider electrolytes, liver enzymes, BUN, and Cr
Premedication
- Diazepam (0.2 mg/kg IV)
- Hydromorphone (0.05–0.2 mg/kg IV, IM in dogs; 0.05–0.1 mg/kg IV, IM in cats)
Intraoperative considerations
Induction
If premedicated, give: • Propofol (2–4 mg/kg IV), or • Alfaxalone (2–3 mg/kg IV)
If not premedicated, give: • Propofol (4–8 mg/kg) IV), or • Alfaxalone (2–5 mg/kg IV)
Maintenance
Isoflurane or sevoflurane, plus
Fentanyl (2–10 µg/kg IV PRN in dogs; 1–4 µg/kg IV PRN in cats) for short-term pain relief, plus
Hydromorphone (0.05–0.2 mg/kg IV PRN in dogs; 0.05–0.1 mg/kg IV PRN in cats) , plus
Ketamine (low dose; 0.5–1 mg/kg IV),
Fluid needs
Estimated blood loss(EBL)
- 5–10 mL/kg/h plus 3× EBL
- 10–20 mL/kg/h plus 3× EBL if open abdomen
Monitoring
- Blood pressure
- HR
- ECG
- Respiratory rate
- SpO2
- Temperature
- EtCO2
Postoperative Considerations
Analgesia
- Carprofen (2.2 mg/kg q12h PO), or
- Deracoxib (3–4 mg/kg q24h for <7 days PO), or
- Meloxicam (0.1–0.2 mg/kg once SC, PO then 0.1 mg/kg PO q24h)
Monitoring
- SpO2
- Blood pressure
- HR
- Respiratory rate
- Temperature
Surgical Techniques for Spaying
Pre-Surgical Preparation
- Incision Site:
- Dogs: The incision is made just behind the umbilicus in the cranial third of the abdomen.
- Cats: The incision is made in the middle third of the abdomen.
- Incision Length: A 4-8 cm cut through the skin and subcutaneous tissue exposes the linea alba.
Step-by-Step Procedure
- Locating the Uterine Horn:
- An OVE hook is used to locate and lift the uterine horn.
- The suspensory ligament is identified and stretched to exteriorize the ovary.
- Ligating the Ovarian Pedicle:
- Clamps (Mosquito, Crile, or Rochester-Carmalt) are placed across the ovarian pedicle.
- Absorbable sutures (e.g., PDS, Maxon, Vicryl) are applied in an encircling or figure-eight pattern.
- Removing the Ovary:
- The ovarian pedicle is cut, and the ovary is removed.
- The same steps are repeated on the other side.
- Ligating the Uterine Body (for OHE):
- The uterine body is tied off above the cervix using figure-eight or circumferential sutures.
- The uterine body is cut, and bleeding is controlled.
- Closing the Incision:
- The abdominal wall is closed in three layers: fascia/linea alba, subcutaneous tissue, and skin.
Alternatives to Spaying
While spaying is the most reliable method, alternatives include:
Medical Prevention (Megestrol Acetate) in Dogs
- Anestrous stage: 0.55 mg/kg PO q24h for 32 days
- Proestrus stage: 2.2 mg/kg PO q24h for 8 days
Medical Termination
Prostaglandin F2α
- Dogs:
- 0.1 mg/kg SC q8h for 2 days
- Then 0.2 mg/kg SC q8h until abortion is complete (>9 days)
- Cats:
- 2 mg/cat IM q24h for 5 days
- Start at least 30 days after breeding
Cloprostenol (Estrumate)
- Dogs:
- 1–2 µg/kg SC q24h for 5–7 days, starting at least 30 days after breeding
- OR 1 µg/kg SC q48h for 3 doses + Cabergoline (Dostinex) (5 µg/kg PO) q24h for 9 days
Cabergoline
- Dogs: 1.65 µg/kg SC q48h for 5 days (efficacy depends on timing with LH surge)
Bromocriptine
- Dogs:
- 0.1 mg/kg/day PO for 6 days (starting day 35 of gestation)
- OR 0.03 mg/kg PO q12h for 4 days (after day 30 of gestation)
Mifepristone
- Dogs: 2.5 mg/kg PO daily for 4–5 days (starting day 32 of gestation)
Aglepristone
- Dogs:
- 10 mg/kg SC, given twice q24h
- OR 0.15 mg/kg SC given twice q24h
- Cats:
- 15 mg/kg SC q24h for 2 days (starting day 33)
However, these methods are less effective and may have side effects.
Images of procedures
FAQs About Spaying in Dogs
1. What is the ideal age to spay a dog?
The best time is before the first heat cycle, usually around 6 months of age. Consult your vet for breed-specific advice.
2. How long is the recovery period after spaying?
Most dogs recover within 10-14 days. Limit physical activity and keep the incision site clean.
3. Are there risks associated with spaying?
While generally safe, risks include infection, bleeding, or anesthesia-related complications.
4. Does spaying cause weight gain?
Spaying may slow metabolism, but weight gain can be managed with proper diet and exercise.
5. Is spaying beneficial for older dogs?
Yes, it can still prevent pyometra and mammary tumors, though surgical risks may increase with age.
Comparison: Ovariohysterectomy vs. Ovariectomy
| Aspect | Ovariohysterectomy (OHE) | Ovariectomy (OVE) |
|---|---|---|
| Procedure | Removal of ovaries and uterus | Removal of ovaries only |
| Indications | Pyometra, uterine neoplasia | Prevention of estrus |
| Recovery Time | 10-14 days | 10-14 days |
| Complications | Slightly higher risk | Lower risk |
Conclusion
Spaying is a crucial procedure for maintaining the health and well-being of female dogs. It prevents unwanted pregnancies and reduces the risk of serious health issues like pyometra and mammary tumors. By understanding the indications, surgical process, and benefits, pet owners can make informed decisions for their dogs.
Note
Always consult a licensed veterinarian to determine the best approach for your dog’s specific needs.
