What does a bitch spay procedure involve?

When we spay a bitch we remove both ovaries. In the removal of both ovaries we stop female hormone production; it is these hormones that drive the problems associated with having an entire female. In certain cases we will elect to remove the uterus too. For example, a dog with known or suspected uterine disease. however your vet will have identified the potential for this prior to surgery. In the vast majority of cases only the ovaries will be removed.

How do we perform a bitch spay procedure?

Bitch spays are conventionally performed by open abdomen surgery. The surgeon directly handles the ovaries and uterus via a mid-line abdominal incision.

At Hollybank veterinary centre we now also perform laparoscopic spays which are performed via keyhole surgery; the surgery involves specialised equipment and specialist training. The advantages to a laparoscopic spay include:

• A minimally invasive surgery and a generally safer procedure
• Associated with lower levels of pain during and after surgery
• Recovery times following the procedure are quicker
• Post operative care is more manageable with minimal rest and no buster collar due to only 3 small wounds being created

It is important to note that key hole spays can only be performed in candidates that fall within a set weight and shape category. Dogs that are too small do not really benefit from the keyhole technique over the conventional spay and the technique is less safe for those overweight. This is also true for those dogs requiring their uterus to be removed. The decision will be made at our discretion in the best interests of your animal.

If your pet does not fit within our guidelines they will have a conventional spay. This involves one slightly larger wound. The outcome is essentially the same but post operative care and recovery times differ as they will require slightly stricter rest and will also need a buster collar. If indicated a laparoscopic bitch spay may have to be converted to a conventional bitch spay. Again this decision will be made in the best interests of your animal

Please read our ‘What happens when your female dog is spayed’ guidelines to read in more details why we recommend spaying and when this can be done.