Question about neutering..

[oconnorjoy]

I had Bamm Bamm for his vacinations last week and was discussing neutering with my vet. She says they are doing them as young as 4 months now. She says she will do a pre-op blood workup to ensure there are no unseen problems. I am a bit nervous about anesthetic since Nugget died from complications of surgery. Is there anything other than the blood work we should be aware of before I give the go ahead for this? (Bamm Bamm is only 3 months now so there is no rush)

[Traci]

While there is plenty of literature available to support early neutering, personally I am not comfortable until they are at least 6 months of age (yes, I am a die-hard)

As for pre-surgical screening, the actual presurg will consist of liver and kidney function (ALT, BUN, creat and total protein, we also include PCV, your vet may use different chemical analysis). If you are concerned, you can also opt for an ECG to monitor heart function as well, but the pre-exam should tell your vet if a heart murmur or other congenital defect is concerning. Also ask about anesthetic being used. (ISO is preferrable)

[davet]

this is where traci and i differ.i like to do them as young as 3 months or when they are big enough to handle the anesthesis but what ever we think, i would go with what ever your vet is comfortable with...there are as many pros and cons for whatever age...what ever your vet is comfortable with is best..

[Traci]

Heh, we rarely ever differ, Davet. I'm so shocked

Love the point, what the vet is comfortable with...

[Julie B.]

Hi,

There really aren't any reasons why you shouldn't neuter at age 4 mos. Do a preanesthetic panel and ask about anesthesia. Not only should gas be used (isoflurane or sevoflurane are preferable to halothane), but a premedication sedative and injectible induction drug should be used. Analgesia is also important. It is also a good idea for an intravenous catheter to be placed for fluid administration and easy access for any emergency drugs. If you feel better about waiting until your pup is 6 mos of age, and you can be certain he won't be in contact with any intact females, then by all means, just wait the additional 2 months. Good luck with your pup, I"m so sorry about Nugget.

[davet]

Julie...you back at school or still out west???

[Julie B.]

and now on clinical rotations. Just finished all my large animal- surgery and medicine. On therio now. I'm enjoying most of it. I have castrated a horse, collected semen on dogs, and palpated a multitude of cows! I'll keep you updated!

JB

[davet]

well i suspect you had one unhappy horse, maybe a couple happy dogs and some "i don't really care cows:....that cattle palpation allmost ruined my marriage..we were doing a herd and had no sleave gloves so was doing it bare handed (right hand only) and corinne brough me a couple sandwiches....not a good thing to show to a new bride...