Neutering

Overall we feel that the benefits of neutering for pet dogs and bitches outweigh the risks. Unless you are planning to breed or mate your dog we would recommend this relatively simple surgical procedure to be done at around the age of six months old. This will prevent unwanted pregnancy and other health issues in both male and female dogs.

If you are considering whether to breed from your dog, please come and speak to us to discuss the health issues and make sure that the decision is right for you. Many new puppy owners like the idea of having one or two litters of puppies but the reality can be very different from the imagination. Having a litter of puppies from your bitch can be a very rewarding and fulfilling experience, however, if you do decide that you would like to breed from your dog please consider how you will find homes for the puppies. Dog rescue and re homing charities are inundated with dogs that need homes so please make sure you will be able to find suitable homes for your puppies.

For those owners who do decide to breed from their dog, we are able to support you right from the beginning. We offer health screening services such as hip and elbow scoring, genetic testing (through our on-site laboratory) and have links to vets able to carry out eye tests. Fertility advice is also available including testing to ensure the correct time of mating to maximise litter size and health. Ultrasound can be used to monitor the pregnancy and accurately diagnose pregnancy from three weeks after mating.

Unfortunately some bitches occasionally have difficulty giving birth and in those cases it may be necessary to have an assisted delivery or even caesarean section delivery. Our clinic is covered out-of-hours by vets from the Small Animal Hospital, located on-site, who are available from the moment our practice closes to when we open again, allowing seamless cover for your pet 24-7. Our patient records are also shared so even in the middle of the night there is access to your pet’s medical record. Following a successful delivery we can examine the puppies and bitch to make sure they are all healthy and provide advice on nutrition and parasite control ensuring the best start for the pups.