Malaysia Veterinary Forum (Archive)

rancid · Joined: 16 Jul 2006 Posts: 7

Hi doctors,

I have a 9+ month female shih tzu and is currently in heat. I'm thinking of getting her spay as soon as possible cos my other male dogs are going crazy over her and I do not intend to breed. Can this surgery be done safely at this time?

Thanks.

Dr csh · Joined: 21 Jan 2006 Posts: 427

It can be done but during the estrus cycle the reproductive tract has increased blood flow and this makes the risk of bleeding higher than normal. After the estrus period, your bitch's progesterone levels will be elevated for about 2 month and if you should spay her then, she may go through something called pseudocyesis where she may adopt soft toys, and even lactate. So the best time to spay her would be in 3 months or so until her next heat.

Talk to your vet and make sure they know your situation so they can make appropriate adjustments. It may cost more for the surgery and there is an increased risk for complications but certainly possible to do it.

acsyen · Joined: 10 Jan 2008 Posts: 94

If i'm not wrong after her heat comes should be can spay already. But cannot remember is 3 weeks after what. Consult your vet. Better to spay her fast if not you will find the males breaking into your house soon..

Dr csh · Joined: 21 Jan 2006 Posts: 427

Actually you can spay whenever. Even in heat, even during pregnancy, even during caesarean section. Each has it's own disadvantages. The least side effects is to spay during anestrus which happens about 2-3 months after normal heats.

There is no advantage to spay 3 weeks after heat or even exactly at 2 month when the bitch is expected to reach anestrus when it comes to prevent male dogs from becoming interested. Just do it before the next heat cycle which is usually between 6-9 months interval and you will not have the problem.