The Chilean scientists created a new, reversible, non-surgical neutering vaccine for dogs. The recent innovation removes the need for surgery or sedation and can potentially be done worldwide. According to Reuters, this innovation came after a small Chilean terrier in Santiago was one of the first dogs to get vaccinated. Such innovation comes when people debate the pros and cons of traditional neutering and spaying for pets.
What Is Neutering
Neutering and spaying are common surgeries that desex a dog to prevent it from making puppies. Spaying in dogs is the removal of the ovaries or uterus in the female dog. The removal of testicles is neutering in the male dogs. These surgeries leave cuts, and dogs take a recovery time. Male dogs usually take about seven days while their female counterparts take seven to ten days.
How Does This Vaccine Work?
Inhibits a hormone that normally controls reproduction, this hormone is blocked, and the process of reproduction within the body of the dog mimics that caused by actual neutering but minus the surgery; however, the vaccine can be reversed when the time comes. This vaccine applies to dogs both male and female, and it goes for approximately Rs.4,532 ($54).
Why Is the Vaccine Better Than Surgery?
Not to say that the vaccine itself is mainly advantageous in the neutering process, but compared with surgery, a conventional procedure for neutering, the process is much less complicated and invasive. It doesn’t necessitate anesthesia or any recovery, so it becomes easier and safer for dogs. Scientists are hoping that this simple injection will help neuter even more dogs within a safer and more efficient manner, particularly areas where surgical procedures may not be accessible in those places.
The vaccine further reduces surgical complications; its secondary role is to reduce infections. This allows a choice for dogs that are older or have medical conditions that expose them to the utmost risks of surgery.
Is Neutering Good Or Bad For Dogs?
Veterinarians often neuter and spay animals to curb diseases like testicular cancers and uterine infections; however, as postulated by other studies, there are few negative impacts about this procedure. For instance, a study published last year 2019 indicated that neutered or spayed dogs have a tendency to gain excess weight or become obese.
Research in 2013 showed that neutered golden retrievers had a greater probability to leave with joint problems, like hip dysplasia and some breeds of cancer. This was observed to a higher extent in dogs neutered before one year of age. Experts say that this is because the reproductive hormones removed during neutering play significant roles within the body, like strengthening muscles and bones.
