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Spay

by Krista Mifflin
for About.com

What is Spaying?:
Spaying, also called an Ovariohysterectomy, removes the uterus and ovaries of a female animal, preventing estrus entirely.

Spaying is the only sure way to prevent pregnancy in female dogs or cats.

Early age spaying, before the dog reaches her first heat cycle, can almost entirely eliminate the risk of certain cancers and infections. Waiting until after her first heat increases the risk significantly, as much as 50% by the age of two. Please spay your female pets.
What are the Health Benefits?:
Spaying before the first heat can nearly remove the risk of mammary tumours in female dogs if spayed before their first heat.

False pregnancies are eliminated, and all their resulting stress.

Early spaying prevents ovarian and uterine tumours.

Uterine infections are also completely prevented.

Spaying prevents accidental pregnancies and the attendant risks involved.
What are the Behavioral Benefits?:
A spayed female is much more comfortable than her unaltered peers.

By removing her hormone-producing ovaries, you also remove the mood swings that can make your bitch seem ... well ... bitchy.

There will be no more bloodstains on the carpet or bedding.

No more male dogs trying to break down your fence to reach her.

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