Canine Neuter

What is a neuter?

A neuter is a surgical procedure performed on a male dog where the testes are removed. This procedure is also referred to as castration. We recommend that all male dogs be neutered unless they are to be used for breeding purposes. There are several reasons to neuter a male dog. Neutering prevents your dog from accidentally breeding a female in heat, and in a way you are helping to reduce the overpopulation of dogs in this state. It also reduces the transmission of venereal diseases in dogs. Finally, males that are not neutered (intact) are more prone to testicular and prostate cancer than neutered animals.

When can it be done?

Your dog must be at least six to eight months old and current on his vaccinations to be neutered. Surgeries are performed on Tuesday and Thursday mornings. Appointments are necessary.  We ask that if you are a new client that you make an appointment to meet Dr. Fleck and have an initial exam before any surgery is performed.  The cost of this appointment will apply to your surgery.   Please bring in your pet between 7:00 and 9:00a.m. Please do not feed or water your pet after 6:00pm the evening before the surgery.

What happens during the surgery?

Your pet will be examined prior to surgery. He will then be given a pre-anesthetic injection, which will calm him and also decrease the amount of anesthesia required during the surgery. An anesthetic is injected into the muscle, and the hair from the scrotum is removed before the area is surgically scrubbed three times. Sterile gloves, instruments and a drape are used to keep the surgical field sterile. An incision is made over each testicle. The testicle and spermatic cord are exposed, the spermatic cord is clamped, ligated and cut just in front of the testicle. This same procedure is repeated on the other testicle. Skin sutures will be used.

What about after the surgery?

Your pet will be released that evening. He may have water that evening as long as he is alert. Continue to withhold food until the morning after the surgery. The incision area needs to be watched for excessive swelling or fluid drainage. If removable sutures are used on your pet, they will need to be removed in seven to ten days after the surgery. If there are any problems or questions about this procedure or any aspect of your pet's health, please contact us.

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