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Archived Message

ORIGINAL MESSAGE:
by Nathalie

Hi,I have a five years old female Maltese and I was wondering if she was too old to be spayed. Are there some specific aging dangers related to it? Are there any physical/psychological benefits to this operation? Any suggestions or opinions on this matter would be appreciated.Thanks!

DISCUSSION:

It isn't too late and it's always a good idea so that your dog doesn't get pregnant. You shouldn't have any complications if your vet says your dog is in good health. I work with several rescue groups and we spay all dogs before placing them, regardless of age unless the vet says that the dog is too old to undergo the anesthesia (usually dogs that are well over 10 years old and already feeble). In addition, the shelter that I volunteer at has a mandatory spay/neuter for every dog, regardless of age. If you spay your dog then she won't develop ovarian or uterine cancer and it may also lower her risk of mamary cancer. I think you should make the appointment today! Best of luck.
-Susan

I do rescue and we spay/neuter no matter the age, prior to going to their new homes. The oldest female I have had spayed was estimated at 10 years old. She did fine through the surgery. Your vet will talk to you about any risks involved and to the benefits of spay. I am sure you will agree that the benefits outweigh the risk. Five years old is really a young dog when you talk about rescue, and I can't tell you how many we have done at this estimated age, and we have not ever lost one due to this surgery.
-Marsha A.

I was wondering that also. My female maltese just past her first heat and I was thinking about breeding her, but have since then changed my mind and wanted to get her spayed. Thanks everyone who wrote in!
-Angie Ellis