Castration
A lot of different opinions exist on the pros and cons of neutering which oftentimes results in major confusion about what is the best option for the pet. Please feel free to make an appointment for a consultation and we will gladly discuss the advantages and disadvantages of castration and possible hormonal alternatives. Here, we pay attention to the individual differences in order to determine the correct point of time and method for your pet when needed. We strive to offer you a neutral decision support.
In general, “castration” means the removal of gonads (testicles or ovaries) in both sexes, whereas “sterilization” is only the disconnection of the spermatic duct or oviduct. Whether the uterus in females should be removed or not is decided in each case - but generally this is not necessary in young and healthy bitches/queens.
Further information on the endoscopic castration of the bitch can be found under "Minimally invasive procedures".
Chemical castration of the male dog offers an alternative to surgical castration. Testosterone production is reduced after the implantation of Suprelorin®, which is injected under the skin (possibly after local anesthesia). This implant releases deslorelin over a longer period of time - a so-called GnRH agonist. With this hormone chip, it is now possible to suppress the fertility of the male dog temporarily, which means that the effect is reversible. Therefore it is possible to check whether castration can reduce unwanted patterns of behavior (such as hypersexuality, straying, urine marking, or aggression). Also possible adverse effects of castration such as changes in nature or coat quality, weight gain, and urinary incontinence can be observed in advance. The duration of effect is about 6-12 months, depending on the implant size (4.7mg or 9.4mg). The implant is a safe and useful alternative to the surgical removal of the testicles and can be used repeatedly. Especially for males with an increased risk of anesthesia, this oftenly is an appreciated alternative. After implantation, an increased production of sex hormones occurs over a few days before the testosterone level drops within several weeks, so that the full effect starts after approximately 6-8 weeks. Clinically, the effect can be controlled by reduction of the testicular volume. Systemic adverse effects are not described. Nevertheless, prior to usage, the testicles and the prostate (in older males) should be thoroughly examined.