Dog Castration

A castration operation involves the removal of both testicles.
Any male dog that is not going to be used for breeding purposes should be castrated at 6 months of age. Unless your dog is a good specimen of the breed, is registered with KUSA and all the necessary screening tests for the breed have been done, it is irresponsible to breed. It is important to remember that there are many unwanted puppies and dogs out there, without your adding to the problem.

Cryptorchid

A cryptorchid is a male in which only one or neither testicle has descended into the scrotum. It is important that these patients are castrated. Cryptorchism is an inherited fault that can be passed on by breeding.
The testicle(s) that has remained in the abdomen often becomes cancerous if not removed early.

Advantages of Castration

Castration:

• Prevents testicular tumours
• Can reduce hormone related aggression and dominance
• Prevents unwanted pregnancies
• Reduces the likelihood of prostate problems in later life.

Alleged disadvantages of castration

Dogs that are castrated:

• Are prone to weight gain. This is not true if the dog is fed the correct amount of a balanced food, without too many treats or tidbits
• Can no longer be guard dogs. Castration does reduce the level of testosterone but it does not reduce intelligence and the ability to guard
• Will change their personality, This is not true.

The Operation

An incision is made just in front of the scrotum and the blood vessels and sperm duct are tied off so that the testicles can be removed. The wound is then closed with two layers of sutures.
Your dog should be ready to go home by 4pm the same day. Please telephone before coming to collect.
As you will understand, it is important that you keep your dog rested so that the wound can heal. This is often easier said than done as the dogs feel so well after the procedure. Exercise on a lead only is strongly recommended for the first 4 days after surgery. The stitches need to removed two weeks after the operation.