Did you know that 78% of pet households in the USA spayed or neutered their dogs? These surgeries not only reduce the number of unwanted animals but also bring many benefits. Shiba Inu spaying is one of the most important surgeries that can prolong your dog’s life. It does not only prevent unwanted litter but also affects your pet’s temperament. Spayed females are calm-tempered, more affectionate, and less prone to wandering.
At what age should I spay my Shiba Inu?
The best time to spay your Shiba Inu is between the 4th and 9th months of age. However, it won’t be a problem to perform it later in your dog’s life too. By reaching sexual maturity, your Shiba Inu becomes able to get pregnant. So, if you’re not planning to breed her, spay surgery is the best option. Many vets recommend spaying before the first heat. Females usually get it when they are approximately 5 or 6 months old.
Should I spay my Shiba Inu? What are the benefits?
Spay surgery will prolong your dog’s life. Many studies can prove this fact. Besides, Shibas who get spayed or neutered is less prone to wandering, anxiety, hyperactivity, and destructive behavior.
Spaying also reduces the risk of uterine infections and breast cancers. And, what’s even more important. Your female Shiba Inu won’t attract male dogs while walking outdoors during the heat.
Is it risky to spay my Shiba Inu?
No. Just like neutering, this is not a risky procedure. However, a female Shiba Inu who had a surgery needs to get a proper recovery treatment. You should prevent your Shiba from heavy exercise, long walks, and running in the first 2 weeks. After that, you can gradually increase the walks, time for play, and running. We know that it will be difficult to keep a Shiba Inu calm and restrict her from many activities, however, it’s the best for her recovery.
What to expect when recovering from surgery?
Bathing a Shiba Inu is not allowed in the first two or three weeks after surgery. Before you decide to do it, we recommend you ask the vet for advice because he/she will check the incision spot first. The incision spot should be dry, without any secretion. In case it’s red and releases yellow or brown pus, then your dog got an infection.
To prevent your lovely four-legged friend from this complicacy, you should use the Elizabetan collar. In that way, you’ll prevent your Shiba from licking the spot and making it moist.
A dog who went through surgery will be a bit sleepy in the first few hours. It’s a normal reaction to anesthesia. Depending on what type of anesthesia your dog received, you should ask the vet whether your Shiba is allowed to drink water and in what quantities.
