Dog Spaying : Complete Guide to Spay Surgery & Recovery

Why Should Female Dogs Be Spayed?

Your veterinarian at Modern Vet may recommend spaying surgery for your female dog to prevent or treat several important conditions:

• Prevents seasons or heat cycles: No more managing messy heat periods every 6-8 months
• Dramatically reduces mammary cancer risk, especially when performed before the first heat cycle
• Stops womb infections (pyometra). A pyometra is a life-threatening condition common in older, unspayed females
• Prevents false pregnancies that can be uncomfortable and cause behavioural issues
• Assists management of diabetes
• Prevents birth complications and the stress of finding homes for puppies

The number of puppies born annually still far exceeds the number of loving homes available. All pet dogs and cats in Dubai must be registered with the Dubai Municipality, and spaying helps address pet overpopulation.

How the Surgery Is Performed

Modern Vet offers multiple surgical approaches, both performed under general anaesthesia with advanced monitoring equipment.

Traditional Open Surgery

• Complete removal of the ovaries and uterus through a midline abdominal incision
• Incision length varies based on your dog’s size and any complications

Laparoscopic Surgery

• 2-3 small incisions in the abdomen
• Camera-guided surgery using specialised instruments
• Minimally invasive with faster recovery times
• Higher precision and reduced post-operative discomfort

What Happens on Surgery Day

Before Surgery:

• Complete a pre-surgical examination with your veterinary team
• Ensure your dog is clean and has relieved herself before arrival

During Your Visit:

• Thorough health assessment to confirm that surgery can proceed safely
• Pre-anaesthetic blood work if recommended
• Administration of sedation and pain relief
• Professional surgical preparation
• Surgery performed by experienced veterinary surgeons

Post-Surgery Recovery:

• Careful monitoring in our recovery area until fully awake
• Most dogs can return home the same day, though some may require overnight observation
• Comprehensive discharge instructions and pain management medication
• Follow-up care guidance specific to your pet

Factors Affecting Spaying Costs

Surgical Technique

• Laparoscopic surgery costs more due to specialised equipment and advanced training requirements
• Open surgery remains highly effective and more budget-friendly

Additional Factors

• Your dog’s size and weight
• Pre-surgical blood work and health assessment

At Modern Vet, we believe in transparent pricing and will provide a detailed estimate during your consultation, ensuring you understand all costs involved.

Are there any downsides to spaying?

Removing reproductive hormones can slow the metabolism, making weight gain more likely. However, this can be easily managed through proper diet and exercise with guidance from our veterinary team. Spaying does not alter your dog’s personality, intelligence, playfulness, or affection levels.

Breed-Specific Considerations

• Large breed dogs spayed before skeletal maturity may have a slightly increased risk of cruciate ligament injuries and hip dysplasia
• Middle-aged and older spayed females may occasionally develop urinary incontinence
• These risks are generally outweighed by the significant health benefits

Surgical Risks

Mild complications include bruising, swelling, and minor wound infections. Serious complications are, fortunately, very rare. Modern anaesthetic protocols and monitoring equipment at Modern Vet significantly minimise these risks, making spaying one of the safest routine procedures we perform.

Optimal Timing for Spaying

It’s always best to discuss the timing of neutering with your vet, who can give a tailored recommendation based on your dog’s breed, lifestyle, behaviour, size, health, sexual maturity, and living situation.

In general:

• Small to medium dogs (under 20kg): from 6 months of age
• Large dogs (over 20kg): between 14-18 months of age
• Giant breeds: between 18-24 months of age

Spaying of adult dogs can be performed safely at any age, though recovery may take slightly longer in older pets.

Can Dogs Be Spayed During Heat?

Ideally, no. Vets avoid spaying female dogs when they’re in heat due to a higher risk of bleeding during surgery as blood vessels become significantly enlarged during this time.

Recommended timing:

• Wait 2-3 months after heat cycle completion
• This allows hormone levels to normalise and reduces surgical complications
• Emergency spaying during heat is possible, but carries increased risks

Recovery Care after Spay

Home environment:

• Ensure constant access to fresh, cool water
• Avoid outdoor exposure during peak heat hours (10 AM – 4 PM)
• Create a cool, comfortable recovery space indoors

Activity:

• Strict rest for 10-14 days: no running, jumping, or rough play
• Use lifts instead of stairs where possible

Wound Care:

• Buster collar (cone) should be worn 24/7 to prevent licking
• Check the incision daily for signs of infection or irritation
• Keep the surgical site clean and dry
• Administer all prescribed pain medications as directed

When to Seek Immediate Veterinary Care

Contact Modern Vet immediately if your dog experiences any of the following symptoms post surgery:

• Bleeding or unusual discharge from the surgical site
• Pale or white gums
• Collapse or extreme weakness
• Laboured or difficult breathing
• Persistent vomiting or diarrhoea beyond 24 hours
• Loss of appetite lasting more than 24 hours
• Signs of uncontrolled pain despite medication

At Modern Vet, our experienced veterinary team understands the unique challenges of pet ownership in Dubai’s climate and culture. We’re committed to providing comprehensive care that considers both your dog’s individual needs and the practical realities of life in the UAE.

During your consultation, we’ll discuss your dog’s specific health profile, ideal timing, surgical options, and create a recovery plan tailored to Dubai’s environmental conditions.