Introduction: Dogs and spaying

Spaying is a common surgical procedure performed on female dogs to prevent them from becoming pregnant. It involves removing the ovaries and uterus, which eliminates the dog’s heat cycle and reduces the risk of certain health problems. While spaying is a routine procedure, it’s important for dog owners to understand what to expect before and after the surgery.

The spaying procedure: What happens

Before the surgery, the dog will receive anesthesia to ensure she is comfortable and pain-free during the procedure. The vet will make an incision in the dog’s abdomen to remove the ovaries and uterus. The length of the surgery will depend on the dog’s size and health, but it typically takes around 30-60 minutes. After the surgery, the dog will be closely monitored as she wakes up from the anesthesia.

Recovery after spaying: What to expect

After the surgery, the dog will need to rest and recover. She may feel groggy or disoriented for several hours as the anesthesia wears off. The vet will provide pain medication to keep the dog comfortable during the recovery period. The dog’s activity level will need to be restricted for several days, and she will need to wear an Elizabethan collar to prevent her from licking or chewing at the incision site. The dog may experience some swelling or bruising around the incision, but this should gradually improve over time.