Certain risks linked specifically to small dogs:
Aside from underlying health issues and old age, a factor that increases the risk of anesthesia is low weight. Sedation is up to 8 times riskier for small dogs under 10 pounds (4.5 kg). Therefore, this applies to the majority of Yorkshire Terriers and certainly to puppies that are going to be spayed or neutered.
There are two main dangers of anesthesia that are linked to low weight:
1.
Hypotension. This is the medical term for low blood pressure and this is one of the most commonly seen complications with pets that undergo sedation. Very low blood pressure can damage the kidneys, brain, and other vital organs, and can be fatal.
But, there are ways to minimize this risk.
Though one may assume that all would, many private veterinary practices do not monitor a dog's blood pressure during procedures. However, if it is monitored, and hypotenstion is detected, there are effective methods to restore blood pressure while sedated including increased IV fluids and, if that fails, certain medications that are given intravenously.
2.
Hypothermia. This is the medical term for low body temperature and this is a common complication with small dogs that do not have a lot of fat stores, therefore this also applies to most Yorkshire Terriers.
There are ways to minimize this risk as well.
If a veterinarian uses a patient warming system, this can greatly reduce the onset of hypothermia. This usually involves a warming blanket that goes under and/or over a sedated dog and this is heated via air, water, or by electricity.
How to minimize the risk of anesthesia with a Yorkie:
Before a spaying or neutering procedure is scheduled, speak to the vet in person regarding:
- The importance of monitoring blood pressure. Also ask what the planned treatment options are, should blood pressure start to dip.
- The importance of using a warming blanket or other warming method.
- Pre-surgical health assessment; if your Yorkie has any current health problems this may be a reason to delay the spay or neuter procedure.
- Your Yorkie's weight. If a puppy is undersized, it may be advised to wait until he or she is a bit larger.
If you are afraid to have your Yorkie spayed or neutered:
If you do not feel comfortable with the veterinarian that will be performing the procedure or he/she will not agree to suggested methods to reduce sedation risks, you have every right to step away and locate a new vet.
And, if you are concerned about having your Yorkie spayed or neutered due to their age, weight, or any other element, it is okay to give it some more thought or wait a bit longer. While early spaying and neutering often brings about the most benefits, this must also be balanced with other aspects such as a Yorkie's size or their current health status. Spaying and neutering at any age is always beneficial, so pet parents should not feel pressured to have it done if they do not feel comfortable.
Myths About Spaying and Neutering
The two most common mis-truths about both genders is:
1) Neutering a male dog will automatically make him depressed, lose strength or decrease his activity level. This is a myth. Studies have shown that male dogs do not act out any mating behavior unless they are moved by their own hormones in reaction to a female dog that is in heat. When neutered, it does not trouble a dog that he cannot mate as the urge is gone. A male Yorkshire Terrier will behave normally in all regards of activity and in having endurance to exercise.
2) A dog will automatically become overweight and/or lazy. This is a myth. When given the appropriate amount of food and exercised properly, Yorkies will not have any noticeable changes in weight or activity.
The Best Age to Spay or Neuter a Yorkshire Terrier
For the most benefits, ideally a Yorkshire Terrier should be spayed or neutered before the age of 1 year old.
With females, studies show that the best chance of lower cancer rates is when spaying is performed before the first
heat cycle; typically at the age of 4 to 5 months old. The odds of developing mammary cancer increases even if a dog goes through just one heat and increases as each future heat cycle is allowed to happen.
With males, neutering is typically done before a dog reaches puberty, at the age of 4 to 6 months old, before bad habits like territorial marking can be established.
This said, the weight-related risks of anesthesia must also be looked at.
Even if you have found a veterinarian that monitors blood pressure and uses a warming blanket, if your Yorkie is undersized, the vet may advise to wait until the 6, 9, or 12-month mark. And, this is okay. Spaying and neutering at any age will have benefits.
How the Procedures of Spaying and Neutering is Performed
Spaying females
is performed by giving the dog general anesthesia. A small incision is made in the abdomen. The uterus is then removed from that small incision. The ovarian ligaments and blood vessels are securely tied. The abdominal tissues are stitched back together in layers (internally). Outside (external) stitches are put in place as well.
Neutering a male
is performed by making an incision in front of the dog’s scrotum. The testicles are then removed through this small incision. The blood vessels are tied off and cut. The incision will either have stitches that dissolve or ones which will need to be removed 10 days after the surgery.