Ovary-Sparing Spay and Vasectomy for Dogs

One of Washington’s only veterinarians offering vasectomy and ovarian-sparing spay — a healthier, hormone-preserving alternative to traditional procedures.

There have been several articles published in peer-reviewed journals (including the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association) over the last few years regarding possible negative effects of spaying and neutering on some dogs, especially when performed at young ages. In addition to traditional spay and neuter, Cashmere Veterinary Clinic is pleased to now offer the alternative sterilization procedures ovary-sparing spay and vasectomy, which allow the dog to remain hormonally intact, but removes the risk of unwanted pregnancy and the life-threatening uterine infection called pyometra (in female dogs). Understanding the Need for Alternative Sterilization

We understand there are different needs for different dog breeds. All of our annual wellness visits are tailored to the breed and age of your dog so we will discuss your options at that time. Recommendations will be made based on your individual situation, your dog’s breed, and your personal preferences. We can help you learn how to manage heat cycles if you decide to allow your female dog to mature physically before spaying.

Interested in learning more about alternative surgical sterilization options?
Customized Sterilization Recommendations

Sterilization Options for Female Dogs

Ovariohysterectomy (Spay)

The ovaries and uterus are completely removed. When performed by the surgeons at Cashmere Veterinary Clinic, using state-of-the-art monitoring, surgical technique, and pain management, this is a safe procedure with minimal recovery time (around 2 weeks).

Ovary-Sparing Spay (OSS)

In this procedure, the entire uterus is removed to below the cervix, but the ovaries are left intact so the dog still has her female hormones. Dogs will still show behavioral and external signs of being in heat, but most have little to no discharge, they cannot get pregnant, and have a very low-to-zero chance of developing pyometra (a serious infection of the uterus), although the ovary-sparing spay procedure is relatively new and has not been studied long-term.

Important Considerations for Ovary-Sparing Spay

Recovery Time

  • Comparable to the traditional spay when performed at our practice.

Incision Size

  • The incision for this procedure may need to be longer than for a traditional spay to allow adequate visualization and access to the cervix. Complete removal of the cervix is essential for prevention of pyometra. Incision length does not affect recovery time, as incisions heal side to side, not end to end.

Surgery Duration

  • Surgery time for this procedure can be longer than for a traditional spay.

Sterilization Options for Male Dogs

Neutering (Castration):
The testes are completely removed, and testosterone levels are significantly reduced.

Vasectomy:
This procedure removes the risk of causing unwanted pregnancies while leaving the dog completely hormonally intact. It is a relatively simple procedure with a quick recovery time. It is important to realize that the dog will remain hormonally intact but will be sterile.

Learn More About Alternative Surgical Sterilization

To read more about ovary-sparing spay/vasectomy, click here.

Learn About Alternative Surgical Sterilization