The Importance of Neutering: Benefits and Best Practices

There's little doubt among most vet professionals that part of basic pet care is to neuter your male pet. This simple procedure is a win for the community, pet owners, but most importantly for the pet. At Glastonbury Animal Hospital in Glastonbury, CT, our experienced and knowledgeable veterinarians are happy to discuss the benefits of neutering during your new pet's initial puppy care exam.

What Is Neutering?

If you're unfamiliar, neutering is the surgical removal of the testicles. This routine procedure takes only 15 to 20 minutes, and most pets go home the same day. Anesthesia is used, but your pet is monitored the entire time and afterward to ensure no complications. It's suggested that smaller dogs be neutered at around 6 months of age, while larger dogs should wait until at least 9 months. This procedure renders male pets unable to reproduce, so it's helpful in controlling the pet population. But there are many other benefits as well.

The Benefits of Neutering

The obvious and most common benefit to neutering is that it will prevent pregnancy. However, this time procedure can also greatly reduce or eliminate negative behaviors like:

- Spraying

- Aggression (fighting, biting)

- Wander and roaming (they won't be looking to mate)

- Mounting objects, people, and other animals

- Destructive behavior (chewing shoes, scratching furniture)

Neutered pets are also more prone to be more affectionate and calm, which can improve your relationship with them and make them a happy part of the family. Most importantly, neutering has several health benefits. Neutered dogs live 18% longer than their non-neutered counterparts. The risk of testicular cancer is eliminated. The instances of prostate problems and hernias are greatly reduced. Since they are calmer, the risk of injury is greatly reduced.

Contact Glastonbury Animal Hospital

If you're in the Glastonbury area and need a veterinarian near you for neutering or any other pet care, the compassionate and friendly staff at Glastonbury Animal Hospital are here to help. We offer a full range of services to keep your pet healthy. Feel free to give us a call or visit our website.