To neuter or not to neuter?

With so many unwanted dogs in the world, responsible dog ownership must include neutering if you do not plan to breed from your dog. As a practice, Grove Lodge recommends owners have their dogs neutered if they are not planning to breed from them. It is important to note that breeding dogs is not an easy thing to do and can sometimes lead to unexpected and costly complications, so you must research fully before deciding to allow your dog to breed.

Listed below are the basic points for and against neutering your dog – the points against are the same for both dogs and bitches. For more in depth information, please talk to your vet. Your dog can usually be neutered from approximately 6 months of age. At Grove Lodge, the pre and post neutering checks are included in the cost of the operation.

BITCHES

Advantages
Reduces the risk of mammary tumours
No pyometra (pus filled womb), which is often fatal and very expensive to treat
No seasons. Seasons last approximately 3 weeks and during that time your bitch can display changes in behaviour – she can stray for miles looking for love! Male dogs can smell her from 3 miles away when she’s in season!
Helps to avoid straying/unwanted attention (when in season she must be kept on the lead and walked at quiet times of day)
No unwanted/unexpected litters

DOGS

Advantages
Completely eliminates the risk of testicular cancer – no testicles!
Reduces the risk of prostate/urinary problems in later life
Reduces excessive mounting of other dogs/cushions/you!
Can reduce aggression with other males

DOGS AND BITCHES

Disadvantages
Can be some loss of coat condition, but good diet avoids this
Change in metabolism means possibility of weight gain. To address this, Grove Lodge offers a free 3 month post neuter check with VHA to weigh. You may need to adjust diet and exercise accordingly.

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Pet care advice (or top 10 puppy myths exposed!)

Over the next few weeks we will be publishing the top 10 common myths surrounding the care of puppies, for example relating to house training, diet and preventative treatments.

If you know of any common mistakes people make, do please send them to me at abigail@grovelodgevets.co.uk.

How cute are these pups?! Don’t forget, you can always call us here at Grove Lodge for advice on your new addition.

Veterinary Services from Grove Lodge

We’re very proud of the comprehensive range of our pet care services. Here’s a brief summary of just a few of the key services provided by Grove Lodge:

24 Hour Emergency Vet Service

Our animal hospital on the Upper Brighton Road is open for emergencies 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. It is always recommended that you telephone before arriving at the hospital. Our emergency helpline number is 01903 234866

Small Animal Referral Services

We can provide specialist expertise, equipment and services for small animals including surgery, cardiology, physiotherapy, ophthalmology and more. We have an exceptionally well equipped hospital and staff who have the specialist skills required to provide the best advice and treatment possible.

Veterinary Pet Care Advisors

Our dedicated veterinary nurses are always happy to provide advice on any pet care related query including diet, parasites and dog training. They carry out a range of routine procedures including claw clipping, worming, dental care and flea control.

Veterinary Ambulance and Delivery Service

To help those who are not able to travel to the hospital we offer a collection and delivery service for all clients living within 20 miles of our animal hospital. A similar service is provided by our Forest Lodge surgery.

Repeat Pet Prescriptions

We provide an online repeat pet prescription facility for the convenience of our customers. Our simple online form enables you to apply for your pet’s repeat prescription, or order pet food, and then pay upon collection.

In addition of course we provide vet surgeries and consultation by appointment from each of our local vet surgeries. We are always striving to improve our pet care services and always welcome suggestions from our valued customers.