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› articles by michael goldberg, dvm
Spay Issues Dear Dr. Goldberg, I have two 16-week-old German Shepherd dogs and my vet tells me they should be spayed before their first heat but my breeder recommends that I wait until they have had at least a single heat. What do you recommend? Barbara, British Columbia Dear Barbara, The research on this topic shows that if female dogs are spayed before their first heat then the chances of mammary cancer later in life are reduced, as well, the operation is usually simpler and less taxing on the dog. If they are spayed between their 1st and 2nd heats, the chances go up slightly of having mammary cancer later in life. If they are spayed after their 2nd heat then the chances are the same that they will get this type of cancer as if they are never spayed. From this point of view, you may understand why your veterinarian has recommended they be spayed before the first heat. A number of people who advocate spaying after the first heat say that the dog has had a chance to mature and grow and thus will be a more emotionally and physically well rounded dog. I have personally noticed that dogs who have been allowed to have a litter before the spay can sometimes come out of their shell and gain more confidence. There are also studies that have been done on dogs altered at 7 weeks with no appreciable detriment in their later years. It is a confusing subject but should be based on your own thoughts regarding these issues. Read more Articles by Michael Goldberg, DVM... |
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vancouver animal wellness hospital Michael Goldberg, DVM; Sue Hughson, DVM 105 e. broadway, vancouver, bc v5t 1w1 / phone: 604.738.4664 / fax: 604.738.4694 Hours of Operation: Monday, Thursday & Friday: 9am - 6pm, Tuesday & Wednesday: 9am - 7pm, Saturday: 9am - 5pm © Copyright 2004-2006. vancouver animal wellness hospital. All rights reserved. › Contact Us › Privacy Policy › Sitemap › Home |