What Gets Removed When a Dog Gets Spayed?

When you bring your beloved furry companion to Auburndale Veterinary Clinic for a spaying procedure, it’s natural to have questions about what exactly happens during this common surgery. In this informative blog, we’ll uncover the details of what vets remove when they spay a dog, providing you with a clear understanding of the process. Please note that while we aim to educate and inform, this information in this blog should not replace professional medical advice or recommend in-home treatments. For any specific concerns or to schedule an appointment, you can reach us at (863) 967-5854.

Understanding the Spaying Procedure

The Ovaries and the Uterus

One of the primary objectives of spaying a female dog is to prevent unwanted pregnancies. During the procedure, the veterinarian will typically remove both the ovaries and the uterus. This is known as an ovariohysterectomy. Removing the ovaries eliminates the production of eggs (ova), while the removal of the uterus ensures that even if mating occurs, pregnancy cannot take place. This comprehensive approach is highly effective in preventing pregnancies.

Benefits of Ovariohysterectomy

Spaying offers several health benefits for your dog. By removing the ovaries and the uterus, you significantly reduce the risk of your pet developing reproductive-related diseases, such as ovarian cysts, uterine infections, and even certain types of cancer. It can also prevent potentially life-threatening conditions like pyometra, a severe uterine infection, which can be common in unspayed dogs.

The Surgical Procedure

Anesthesia and Incision

Before the surgery begins, your dog will be placed under anesthesia to ensure she feels no pain and remains completely still during the procedure. The vet will make a small incision in the abdominal area, carefully exposing the reproductive organs for removal. This incision is typically made low on the abdomen, minimizing post-operative discomfort and promoting faster healing.

Removal Process

Once the abdominal cavity is accessible, the veterinarian will meticulously remove the ovaries and uterus. Special care is taken to ligate (tie off) blood vessels and ensure a clean and safe removal. This is a critical step in the procedure, as it helps prevent excessive bleeding and complications.

Closure and Recovery

After the reproductive organs are successfully removed, the vet will close the incision using sutures. Dissolvable sutures are often used, eliminating the need for a return visit to remove stitches. Your dog will then be carefully monitored as she wakes up from anesthesia, ensuring a smooth transition into the recovery phase.

The Importance of Spaying

• Overpopulation Control: One of the essential aspects of spaying is its contribution to controlling the pet population. By preventing unwanted pregnancies, you help reduce the number of homeless and abandoned animals. Spaying your dog is a responsible choice that positively impacts your local community and animal welfare in general.
• Behavioral Benefits: In addition to preventing pregnancies and health issues, spaying can have behavioral benefits for your dog. It can reduce or eliminate the urge to roam in search of mates, making your pet less likely to get into dangerous situations or encounters with other animals.
• Improved Longevity: Studies have shown that spayed dogs tend to live longer, healthier lives. They are less

Choosing the Best for Your Canine Friend

Understanding what veterinarians remove when they spay a dog is an important part of responsible pet ownership. By opting for spaying at Auburndale Veterinary Clinic, you are not only ensuring the well-being of your pet but also making a positive impact on the larger community. If you have any questions or are ready to schedule a spaying procedure for your dog, please don’t hesitate to contact us at (863) 967-5854. Our experienced team is here to provide the best care for your beloved canine friend.