In Ireland, there are approximately 500,000 dogs out of which approximately 40 dogs per day are put to sleep (that’s approximately 14,600 per year!).  Therefore it is clear to see that there is over-population in the dog world!  The only way to combat this is to responsibly spay and neuter our dogs.

Dogs (both male and female) reach sexual maturity around 6 months old.  There is a hormonal surge which occurs around this time which can result in nervousness, high levels of energy, roaming, aggression and anxiety.  Un-neutered dogs if not allowed to mate can become frustrated.  This frustration can lead to troublesome behaviour such as aggression, depression, and obsessive territory marking.  Female dogs in heat attract unwanted attention from un-neutered dogs every six months.

With this in mind, the most suitable age for spaying and neutering is around 6 months old.

Spaying and neutering is beneficial for both the psychological and physical well-being of your dog as well as helping to reduce the amount of unwanted dogs who are put to sleep in Ireland each year.

Before you bring your dog to the vet to be spayed or neutered check our guidelines for visiting the vet.

It is a common misconception that spaying or neutering your dog leads to weight gain – this is untrue.  Generally this occurs as a result of over-feeding and under-exercising.  If after the procedure your dog’s energy levels decrease slightly, adjust its diet to suit.  Also ensure that the dog is getting adequate exercise (2 daily walks – minimum 30 minutes each time).

Studies have shown that; male dogs that are neutered are significantly less likely to develop prostate cancer than un-neutered dogs and female dogs that are spayed are significantly less likely to develop uterine infections and ovarian and mammary cancer later in life.

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