Castration surgery prevents much more than unwanted litters–this surgery can prevent diseases, such as testicular cancer and prostate diseases common to uncastrated canines. In addition to being the best way to prevent these diseases, neutering is a relatively low-risk surgery, with a quick recovery time. You can usually take your dog home the same day castration is performed, and he will be back to his playful self in usually less than a week.
Features
Male dog neuter surgery (castration) involves removal of the testicles, thus preventing all forms of testicular cancer. In addition, because testosterone is no longer produced by the testicles, risk for diseases associated with testosterone (perianal adenoma and prostatitis, for example) will also be eliminated or reduced. There is minimal blood loss during normal castration surgeries and serious complications are rare.
Diseases Prevented
According to marvistavet.com, canine castration prevents diseases such as testicular cancer and certain other kinds of tumors (perianal adenoma). Castration also prevents prostate cancer, infections and overgrowth of the prostate. In addition, if the dog is neutered before adulthood, he will not normally develop the types of territorial behaviors most intact male dogs develop (roaming, marking territory and aggressiveness, for example). This may prevent the dog from exposure to infectious diseases commonly transmitted through dog bites.
Time Frame
Waiting too long to castrate your dog increases his chances of developing reproductive system cancers or benign tumors. Once a dog reaches adulthood, testosterone’s negative influence may have already begun. Dogs can be castrated at 2 months of age. The average recommended age for neutering is from 4 to 6 months–well before a dog reaches adulthood.
Warning
Testicular cancer, prostate cancers and anal tumors are serious and costly diseases. Only castration can fully prevent testicular cancers and significantly reduce occurrence of perianal adenoma and other testosterone-related conditions and diseases. Reactions to anesthesia are not common but do happen–discuss this with your veterinarian beforehand, for your dog’s health and your own peace of mind. Observe the surgical incisions for signs of infection (swelling, redness and/or pus) until it has healed. If your dog shows signs of infection–including fever or lethargy–contact your vet.
Considerations
The cost of canine castration surgery is much less than what owners would have to pay for diseases and conditions common to intact male dogs.
