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Should I Castrate My DogHarvey Carruthers |
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Health Benefits
of Castration
Castration removes the possibility of testicular cancer. In addition, the incidence of prostate disease and other cancers is reduced. Surgical neutering in dogs is also the most common means of population control. Though among responsible dog owners this approach may appear unnecessary, thousands of pets end up as unwanted strays each year. In the US, euthanasia of strays has been described as the biggest cause of death in the dog population.
Health Problems after Castration
A dull and slightly thinner coat may be seen after castration. Dogs may require less food than prior to the operation to avoid development of obesity. Lethargy is unlikely; in fact some believe that castration is invigorating. Freud taught that men suffered "castration anxiety" and are more likely to resist castration of their dog. Artificial replacement testes are availble in various sizes, but are not routinely implanted in the UK
Does Castration Cure Behavioural Problems
Behaviours for which castration has been carried out as a treatment include roaming, aggression and inapropriate urine marking in the house. I am cautious when advising on the benefits of castration in these cases and often refer to a trainer or behaviourist. Some researchers report an increased number of castrated dogs ending up in dog pounds, possibly as castration has failed to control a variety of unwanted traits.
At What Age Should Dogs Be Castrated
Early castration has been defined as being at less than six months old, and is becoming more popular among vets. Evidence for the benefits of early castration is still being gathered - for example, some studies show reduction in behavioural problems, such as separation anxiety and escaping behaviours, but an increase in hip dysplasia and noise phobias. Other studies report
no physical difference but a reduction in behavioural problems.
Castration removes the possibility of testicular cancer. In addition, the incidence of prostate disease and other cancers is reduced. Surgical neutering in dogs is also the most common means of population control. Though among responsible dog owners this approach may appear unnecessary, thousands of pets end up as unwanted strays each year. In the US, euthanasia of strays has been described as the biggest cause of death in the dog population.
Health Problems after Castration
A dull and slightly thinner coat may be seen after castration. Dogs may require less food than prior to the operation to avoid development of obesity. Lethargy is unlikely; in fact some believe that castration is invigorating. Freud taught that men suffered "castration anxiety" and are more likely to resist castration of their dog. Artificial replacement testes are availble in various sizes, but are not routinely implanted in the UK
Does Castration Cure Behavioural Problems
Behaviours for which castration has been carried out as a treatment include roaming, aggression and inapropriate urine marking in the house. I am cautious when advising on the benefits of castration in these cases and often refer to a trainer or behaviourist. Some researchers report an increased number of castrated dogs ending up in dog pounds, possibly as castration has failed to control a variety of unwanted traits.
At What Age Should Dogs Be Castrated
Early castration has been defined as being at less than six months old, and is becoming more popular among vets. Evidence for the benefits of early castration is still being gathered - for example, some studies show reduction in behavioural problems, such as separation anxiety and escaping behaviours, but an increase in hip dysplasia and noise phobias. Other studies report
no physical difference but a reduction in behavioural problems.
reprinted with kind permission from Alastair Balmain
Deputy Editor:Shooting Times & Country Magazine
Blue Fin Building, 110 Southwark Street SE1 0SU
Tel: 020 3148 4750
Deputy Editor:Shooting Times & Country Magazine
Blue Fin Building, 110 Southwark Street SE1 0SU
Tel: 020 3148 4750