Laparoscopic “keyhole” bitch spays.

Which bitches can have this technique?

We are offering this to bitches who are:

• 6kg or more in body weight AND
• 8 years or younger.

What are the benefits of this procedure to owners and their pets?

• Less painful after the operation
• Smaller wounds to heal
• Quicker recovery from surgery
• Quicker return to normal exercise

What is involved in the procedure?

The operation is done under general anaesthetic, then 2 small holes are made in the midline of the abdomen. For comparison, a standard open bitch spay hole might be 4-6cm or sometimes bigger for larger dogs.

The holes allow us to insert:

• Videoscope (camera), to be able to look around the abdomen
• Instruments to grasp the ovary
• Vessel sealer, which is used to cauterise the ovarian attachments and cut them away.

The ovaries are removed and the tiny wounds are closed with internal dissolving stitches, meaning that lampshade “Buster” collars are usually unnecessary.

How do I care for my dog after the procedure?

She will go home the same day and will need to take it easy for a few days. Most bitches will be fine to resume normal lead walks after 3 days. There will be some painkilling medication to take initially and we’ll do a routine recheck after 7 days.

What is the cost of the procedure?

This is a very modern, highly skilled technique using expensive equipment so naturally the price is higher than a standard bitch spay. There’s good news for dogs on our Healthy Pets Plan as they will receive 10% off the total cost as per usual. Please phone the practice for pricing.

Laparoscopic bitch spays: some facts

• Only the ovaries are removed. We are able to do this routinely for standard bitch spays also.
• We don’t offer this for really small dogs (under 6kg) due to the size of the instruments we use.
• Not always appropriate for older bitches where the uterus may be diseased already, so we will only offer this technique to bitches 8 years and younger.
• Post-op care: 2 small wounds with internal stitches and wound glue. Restricted exercise for 3 days, then normal lead walks can resume (but no running around off lead until after the 7 day nurse check-up). No Buster collar will be provided as the wounds are so small.
• This procedure may not be appropriate if your bitch is overweight.

Give us a call on 01869 252077 if you’d like to discuss this innovative procedure for your dog.

Call us on 01869 252077 →All services