From decreasing your pet’s risks of health issues to eliminating issues of unwanted pregnancies, there are so many reasons why sterilisation is important. The cost of sterilising a dog may be of concern for you, but luckily this is an easy solve if you have pet insurance. Read on for all the details.
What is pet insurance?
Before we get into the benefits of sterilising your dog, let’s first chat about pet insurance. Pet insurance is basically like medical cover for your little furry besties, and it covers everything from routine check-ups to hospital admission – including sterilisation. We can recommend Oneplan Pet Insurance if you’re looking for a pet insurance plan that’s affordable AND comprehensive, and they even let you keep your favourite vet!
Being the proud parent of a pooch is no joke – it comes with a lot of responsibility and a lot of vet bills (some of which are often unexpected). So, save yourself the stress and debt and get pet insurance.
Why sterilising is great for your precious pooch
If you are the beaming new paw parent of a little female puppy, then you’ll be happy to know that spaying your little one can reduce her chances of breast cancer, ovarian and uterine cancer developing!
Spaying also decreases her risk of getting a uterine infection and avoids all the risks associated with unplanned pregnancy. And of course, if you have a male puppy, neutering prevents testicular cancer and decreases his risk of prostate issues, the development of tumours and even hernias.
Red this: 5 Tips on How to Calm an Anxious Dog at the Vet
Why sterilising is great for you (yes, you!)
The most obvious benefit to you and that when you sterilise your dog you will never have to worry about unwanted litters of puppies. Puppies can be very expensive (even if they are very cute) and a HUGE responsibility to take on.
Males that are neutered are less aggressive and less distracted by female dogs in heat. They are also less prone to ‘marking their territory’ by urinating on everything. When you spay your female puppy this also stops stray males from trying to get to her and get into your garden!
If you have a purebred puppy then you might be thinking “I could earn some great cash from selling the puppies,” but bear in mind that a lot of that money will have to go to vaccination fees, vet visits and check-up, food, beds and blankets and some other often unexpected expenses. There are enough dog breeders out there and far too many dogs in shelters – make the right decision and sterilise your dog.
Some questions you might have about sterilisation
I am worried about my puppy having an operation, is it safe?
Sterilisation is a routine procedure for vets, and it is very safe; the benefits of this surgery far outweigh the risks. Chat with your vet about any concerns you have and he or she can help to set your mind at ease.
Will this operation make my puppy fat?
Your puppy is unlikely to get fat after this operation, chat to your vet about diet and the right kind of food to prevent obesity. There is a lack of evidence that links sterilisation to weight gain in dogs.
What happens during the sterilisation surgery?
Good question! Well, for males, the operation will involve removing both testicles and for female, removing the ovaries and womb or just the ovaries. Your vet might ask that your dog doesn’t eat or drink anything for 12 hours before the op and you can probably bring your puppy home the same day. Feed your puppy a light meal when he gets home.
Remember, your little furry loved one will need a few days to rest and get better. Do not let him or her jump around or bite on the stitches. Only light exercise is allowed. Your puppy might need to have the stitches removed after 10 days – speak to your vet about the specifics on this.
You can read this blog for more pre- and post-op tips.
What is the cost of sterilising a dog?
The cost of sterilisation varies depending on which vet you use and the size of your pet. But generally, you can expect the following prices:
- Small dog (1 – 10kgs in weight) – Male = R900 and female = R1100
- Medium dog (10 – 19kgs in weight) – Male = R1000 and female = R1250
- Large dog (20 – 30kgs in weight) – Male = R1200 and female = R1500
- XL dog (30 – 40kgs in weight) – Male = R1400 and female = R1700
- XXL dog (40 – 60kgs in weight) – Male = R1600 and female = R2000
BUT! If you have pet insurance, they help cover the costs!
Yours in Not-So-Average Pet Advice,
The Petinsurance.co.za Team