DVM speak out What's your opinion on performing pediatric spay/neuters?
"I agree with the procedure in a shelter situation because a lot of people who adopt will not get around to having the animal sterilized. For my clients, I recommend waiting until the animal is 5-6 months old — they handle the anesthesia better, and there is some indication of female incontinence later in life if you spay very early."
"I agree with the procedure in a shelter situation because a lot of people who adopt will not get around to having the animal sterilized. For my clients, I recommend waiting until the animal is 5-6 months old — they handle the anesthesia better, and there is some indication of female incontinence later in life if you spay very early."
Dr. Margaret Fower
Panhandle Animal Wellness Services
Panama City, Fla.
" I think it is a good procedure. A local shelter has been performing the procedure on 6-8-week-old puppies since the 1950s, and I haven't heard about any adverse health problems with the animals. I think in the shelter environment, it is much better to have the procedure early and find a home than to be euthanized."
Dr. Ezekiel Thomas
River Forest Animal Hospital
Sarasota, Fla.
"I do agree that the procedure is good for population control. We do not perform the procedure until animals are 6 months old, mainly to check for retained baby teeth and avoid a second anesthesia."
Dr. Dale Olm
Southampton Pet Hospital
Benicia, Calif.
"Depends on the individual situation — it is good for controlling pet population. For owned animals, I wait until animals are about 4 months old."
Dr. Heidi Graves
Fleming Island Pet and Bird Clinic
Orange Park, Fla.
