Dog Spay Procedure: What It Is, How to Prepare, and What to Expect

Puppy season is officially in full swing, which means shelters and rescues across the country are talking about the importance of spaying and neutering pets! While the decision to spay your dog is deeply personal, we encourage pet owners to consider the health, behavioral, and community benefits of this simple procedure. In this post, we’re looking at the how and why behind spaying your dog and what to expect on procedure day. 

What Is A Dog Spay Surgery? 

Spaying is one of the most commonly performed veterinary surgeries. In fact, in the U.S., around 70 million dogs get spayed each year! Also known as ovariohysterectomy, spaying a dog means surgically removing the female reproductive organs (ovaries, uterine tubes, and uterus). This procedure is performed under general anesthesia. 

Benefits of Spaying Your Dog

In addition to preventing unwanted pregnancy, spaying your dog can help prevent life-threatening infections and reduce the risk of certain types of cancers. Other specific benefits include: 

• Prevention of pyometra, a dangerous uterine infection that typically occurs after a heat cycle
• Reduced risk of mammary gland tumors, which can be fatal in some cases 
• Zero risk of uterine and ovarian cancer because these organs are removed

Spaying can also improve certain behavioral issues. Removing a female dog’s ovaries eliminates heat cycles and generally reduces mating-related behaviors that can be frustrating for owners.

Traditional vs. Laparoscopic Spay Surgery

A traditional spay, also known as an “open” surgical spay, is the most common type of spay procedure. This surgery generally requires a 2-4 inch long incision just below the umbilicus (belly button). This incision gives the surgical team the “window” they need to remove the reproductive organs. 

By comparison, a laparoscopic spay, or “keyhole” spay, is a minimally invasive surgical procedure. During this procedure, the surgeon makes 2-3 small incisions (typically ⅕ inch to ⅖ inches long) into the abdomen. A camera is passed into one incision and a small instrument into the other. Then, using the camera to magnify and better visualize your pet’s organs, the surgeon will remove just the ovaries. This technique causes less surgical stress and results in lower post-op pain levels than a traditional spay. 

Laparoscopic spay procedures require specialized training and the use of highly specialized equipment. Mountainside Veterinary Hospital is proud to provide this service to our clients. Get in touch to discuss whether or not this is the right option for your pet! 

How To Prepare for a Spay Procedure

Your veterinarian will help you decide when to spay your pet and provide guidance on how to prepare for their procedure. This will include performing a routine blood screening to help tailor an anesthetic plan for your pet. On the day of your fur baby’s spay, our team will perform a physical exam and ensure they are healthy and ready for the surgical procedure.  

Your veterinarian may ask you to withhold food and/or water to prevent vomiting during anesthesia. In some cases, your vet may prescribe medications for your pet to take at home prior to surgery. Our doctors focus on patient safety and comfort every step of the way, and we’ll always make personalized recommendations for your pet’s specific pre- and post-surgical needs!

What To Expect After Your Dog’s Spay

Most dogs get to go home once they’ve fully recovered from their anesthesia! In rare cases, your dog may need to be hospitalized for additional monitoring or support. For example, if your dog is at risk of bleeding or has underlying uterine disease, she may need more medical management. 

Once she’s back home, it’s important to keep your dog calm and quiet for 10-14 days. Leashed potty breaks, crate time, and careful monitoring can prevent complications such as reopening the surgery site. We strongly recommend either using an e-collar or a surgical recovery suit to keep your dog from licking her stitches. We can help you decide which option is right for your pup!

Notify your veterinarian as soon as possible if you notice swelling, persistent oozing, or bleeding from the incision site. If your pet is lethargic for more than 24 hours post-op, has diarrhea, or is vomiting, you should also contact your pet’s care team.

Supporting Dog Owners Every Step of the Spay!

While spaying your dog is a big decision, in most cases, it’s the right choice. At Mountainside Veterinary Hospital, we’re committed to educating dog owners about their options. Whether you opt for a laparoscopic or traditional spay, we go above and beyond to ensure your pet’s procedure is safe and her recovery is as comfortable as possible. Contact us to learn more about the benefits of spaying and to schedule your pup’s procedure.
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