PRESQUE ISLE, Maine (WAGM) – Pet owners may be getting their dogs fixed too soon.
According to a recent study by the University of California, Davis – Male Dogs should be at least one year old before the surgery to avoid an increased risk of cancer and joint problems. We spoke with local veterinarian James Hotham on the topic
“There are some studies that show that perhaps maybe might have less orthopedic issues if things were delayed and animals were left to go through puberty. There may be less urinary incontinence in older female dogs if they’re spayed after puberty. We used to recommend six months of age is a good time that is still pretty much the standard with your female dogs and cats. If you get them spayed before they go through their first heat cycle you can reduce the incidents of them developing mammary cancer. Some of these recommendations came up as a way to control the pet population”
Hotham says that what works for one dog isn’t always the answer for a different dog. He says that it’s important to discuss any concerns with a vet.
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