SPAYING & CASTRATION: SOUR GRAPES OR SWEET RELIEF?

In the world of Bulldogs, ageing is akin to the maturation of fine wine - each year adds depth to their character and personality. Like a prized vintage, Bulldogs benefit from allowing nature to take its course before considering interventions, like neutering (for males) and spaying (for females).

★ Timing Is Everything
All dogs, including Bulldogs, should typically reach physical and hormonal maturity before undergoing neutering which is often considered around 18 months to 2 years old. This ensures they fully develop physically and emotionally, guided by natural hormonal changes.

Once your Bulldog reaches maturity, it might be worth discussing spay or neuter options with your vet. Although I personally prefer to leave them intact, making an informed decision that best suits your Bulldog's health and lifestyle is essential. This blog will explore the pros and cons of spaying and neutering and the different methods available.

The Pros and Cons of Spaying and Neutering

★ FEMALES:

Pros of Spaying (Female):

• Prevention of Pyometra: Pyometra is a life-threatening infection of the uterus that can be effectively prevented by spaying. The risk of developing pyometra increases significantly with age, and operating on an older dog can be more risky. Additionally, a scheduled spay is typically less expensive than an emergency pyometra spay (ovariohysterectomy) due to the added complexity and the dog's compromised health during an infection.
• Reduced Risk of Mammary Tumours: Spaying significantly reduces the risk of developing mammary tumours.
• Elimination of Heat Cycles: Spaying eliminates the behavioural and hygienic challenges associated with a female dog's heat cycles.

Cons of Spaying:

• Surgical Risks: As with any surgery, there are risks associated with anaesthesia and the procedure.
• Potential Weight Gain: Spayed dogs may tend to gain weight, which requires careful diet and exercise management.
• Hormonal Changes: Removal of the ovaries can cause hormonal changes that may affect coat luster along with temperament and behaviour.

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Different Types of Spay Methods

​When considering spaying your girl, it's essential to understand the different methods available. Each method has its advantages and considerations:
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Ovariohysterectomy (Traditional 'Open' Spay):

• Procedure: Involves the removal of the ovaries and uterus through an incision in the abdomen.
• Benefits: Comprehensive removal of the reproductive tissues reduces the risk of reproductive cancers and eliminates heat cycles.
• Considerations: It is a more invasive procedure with a longer recovery time. Body suits or buster collars post-op typically aren’t required for this Breed because they are too short in spine to be able to bend and nibble at stitches or incision.

Ovariectomy:

• Procedure: Only the ovaries are removed, leaving the uterus intact.
• Benefits: Less invasive than a full traditional spay with a slightly quicker recovery time.
• Considerations: While it eliminates the risk of ovarian cancer, the uterus is still at risk for issues such as stump pyometra if any ovarian tissue 'unintentionally' remains.

Laparoscopic Ovariectomy (Minimally Invasive Surgery):

• Procedure: Uses small incisions and a camera to guide the removal of the ovaries.
• Benefits: Less invasive, with smaller incisions leading to a quicker recovery and less postoperative pain.
• Considerations: Typically more expensive and requires specialised veterinary equipment (that not all practices have) and expertise.

Ovary sparing spay (OSS)
This procedure is not all that common in the UK yet, but is possible and commonplace in other areas of the world.

• Procedure: Involves making an incision to remove the uterus and cervix, while preserving the ovarian function.
• Benefits: Preserves the hormonal function provided by the ovaries, which can benefit the dog’s overall health and reduce risks associated with spay-induced hormone changes such as weight gain or coat changes.
• Considerations: It's important to note that this procedure does not prevent the risk of ovarian diseases.​

While I do not routinely spay my own females, if necessary, my preferred methods are Laparoscopic Ovariectomy or Ovariohysterectomy. If you decide not to spay your female, understanding the symptoms of Pyometra is crucial, as it affects about 25% of unspayed females by age 10 and is a severe and life-threatening infection. For this reason, I suggest routinely giving a high quality, natural raspberry leaf supplement during each cycle to help maintain uterine health.

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★ MALES:

Pros of Neutering (Male):

• Reduced Risk of Testicular Cancer: Neutering eliminates the risk of testicular cancer and reduces the risk of prostate problems.
• Behavioural Benefits: Neutering can reduce undesirable behaviours such as scent marking, roaming, and aggression linked to testosterone and mating instincts. However, due to the breed's companion-focused temperament, well-socialised and adjusted Bulldogs do not commonly exhibit these behaviours even when entire.
• Population Control: Neutering helps control the pet population, reducing the number of unwanted puppies. While this may not concern your endorsed pedigree Bulldog, it's still worth being aware this is usually the vet’s #1 reason for neutering.

Cons of Neutering:

• Surgical Risks: Similar to spaying, neutering involves surgical and anaesthesia risks. Dogs can have unforeseen and potentially fatal reactions to anaesthetics.
• Potential Weight Gain: Neutered dogs may also experience weight gain, necessitating a balanced and more careful diet with regular exercise.
• Possible Joint Problems: Early neutering has been linked to an increased risk of certain joint disorders, particularly in large breeds.

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Castration Method

Castration, or neutering, for males is simpler due to the testes being external. It’s a surgical procedure where the testicles are removed under anesthetic. This procedure is generally considered routine and safe. Recovery typically involves a few days of rest and monitoring to ensure proper healing. 

Deciding whether to spay or neuter your Bulldog and which method to choose depends on various factors, including your dog's health, lifestyle, and personal preferences. Here are some steps to help you make an informed decision:

• Consult Your Vet: Discuss your Bulldog's health, any pre-existing conditions, and the best timing for the possible procedure. Please bear in mind that most vets have a positive bias towards neutering.
• Research the Options: Understand the pros and cons of each spay/neuter method and how they might affect your Bulldog.
• Consider Long-term Health: Consider how the decision will impact your Bulldog's health in the long run, including potential benefits and risks and how you plan to proactively manage them including supplements or specialist nutrition advice.

​While I prefer to leave my own Bulldogs intact, making an informed decision that best suits your dog's health and lifestyle is essential. You can choose the best path for your Bulldog with your vet to ensure they lead a healthy and happy life.