'Big Snip' questions

Spyglass Sally · 04-25-2009, 10:14 AM

Didn't want too hijack the other thread, but it got me wondering about Buddy and if/when we should have him neutered. I've heard there are pros and cons but can't say I know too much about it. Any info on 1) pros & cons and 2) when is the best time, if you are going to do it would be appreciated.
Thanks!
Sally

bruinsBoxers · 04-25-2009, 10:26 AM

The short version . If I were to neuter I would wail until at least 12 months but done by 18 months that way they get the benefits of the hormones for proper muscle , joint & ligament growth .

There has been some studies that for dogs who work ( performance events , guard , herding etc... ) there is an increased risk of ACL injuries in dogs neutered early ( 6 months ) . And a decreased rate for dogs neutered after 12 months .

RapToR350 · 04-25-2009, 03:07 PM

may i ask what is the big snip?

Ron · 04-25-2009, 05:16 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by RapToR350

may i ask what is the big snip?

getting neutered

KeeperBoy · 04-25-2009, 07:24 PM

If I had a male puppy I would neuter at 12 months. I wouldn't want to deal with a roaming dog, any more humping than necessary and any more marking than needs to be done. Although my undoubted most important reason for neutering would be population control. I am not personally involved in showing, never plan to own a show quality dog and therefore will never be breeding (although I respect any one who breeds responsibly).

Spyglass Sally · 04-25-2009, 07:39 PM

Thanks for your replies. I've been reading more about it now myself and found here that "In the United States, most dogs are neutered between 5 and 8 months of age. Many humane shelters and veterinarians are starting to neuter male animals at a younger age, even 6-14 weeks of age. This early neutering does not affect the growth rate, and there are no appreciable differences in skeletal, physical, or behavioral development between those animals neutered early than those neutered at a more traditional age."

Is that something you guys would agree with? My general paradigm is to be "natural" and not do anything to the dog, but I'm starting to feel there are some good reasons to do this and not really any negatives.

Thanks again for your thoughts and input.
Sally

KeeperBoy · 04-25-2009, 08:38 PM

I see nothing wrong with letting the hormones show and effect growth prior to altering. That being said, if you leave you dog alone outside a lot or know that he has a history of getting outside to roam, I would neuter sooner than later. It really is an easy surgical procedure and saves you lots of trouble in the future. I really don't think there is any reason NOT to neuter a dog you aren't showing (and breeding). I know we leave a dog park if we see an intact male and do not allow either dog to play with intact males. Both my two react much more harshly to unfixed boys.

Spyglass Sally · 04-30-2009, 02:05 PM

Buddy had his 'Big Snip' operation this morning and he's doing fantastic!!!

I would never think he had surgery. I started him this morning on homeopathic remedies - Arnica 30C (for inflammation and soreness) and Bachs Flowers Rescue for pets (for stress & anxiety). I put 2 of the Arnica with 5 drops of Rescue in a spoon and he licked it up. I will do that 4X/day for the next day or so.

What a relief!

Ron · 04-30-2009, 02:14 PM

good to hear he's doing so well