There are several benefits of spaying or neutering your Boston terrier, but it’s important to know all the possible side effects to minimize the risk of side effects.
Although most side effects are minor and treatable, a small number of dogs can suffer serious complications after the procedure.
While not every intact dog will experience severe side effects, your dog will be at risk for serious diseases and infections if they’re left unneutered.
1. Health Problems
Boston terriers can develop several musculoskeletal problems. If not treated early enough, these conditions can lead to permanent disabilities or even blindness.
Your vet will test your dog’s eyes at each exam to ensure they are healthy. While a Boston terrier neuter is an outpatient procedure, recovery time is typically shorter than that of other surgeries.
And while it’s best to avoid letting your dog eat too much or giving it treats, don’t feed them too much, either. Instead, give them attention and love.
Before a Boston terrier reaches a year old, consider spaying it
Young dogs recover more quickly from surgery. It’s also important to note that many shelters and rescue centers neuter rescued dogs at the age of eight weeks or two months. While early neutering is safe, veterinarians do not encourage it for this reason. Ultimately, it’s your dog’s choice, and you must consider your role in society.
Glaucoma
One common problem that can occur after a Boston terrier neuter is glaucoma, an eye disease that can cause blindness if left untreated. Demodex is a microorganism that can cause dry and irritated lesions. Prompt treatment is essential for the prevention of further complications, as well as lifelong management. This condition can be life-threatening. You should consult with your veterinarian if you notice any of these symptoms.
Health Exams by Veterinarian
A veterinarian may recommend pre-surgical blood work and a physical examination.
These exams will help your veterinarian determine whether your dog has any health issues that could impair his or her ability to tolerate anesthesia.
A healthy dog will only need minimal lab work, but a dog with a history of pre-existing conditions may need more extensive testing. Your veterinarian will provide you with a thorough report of the pre-surgical tests.
Your Boston terrier will likely defecate only once or twice the day following the surgery
Small amounts of bloody fluid will collect in the scrotal sac. This fluid will go away within two weeks, though if the amount of blood is excessive, you may need another procedure.
Your dog will likely be uncomfortable and may experience diarrhea and vomiting. If these symptoms are severe, your veterinarian will need to remove the collar.
Male dogs undergo a similar procedure as female dogs and have the same recovery period.
You should plan to take some time off work during the recovery period, as your pet needs constant supervision. After the procedure, your dog will require 14 days of recovery.
It’s best to keep your pet indoors during this period to help prevent infection
If your Boston terrier is in heat, make sure you supervise it. He may also spray urine and defecate everywhere, including in the house.
Your dog may also be prone to bolting from the house or digging under the fence. If your Boston terrier is a free-ranger, it may face the risk of being hit by cars, contracting infectious diseases, or even being stolen.
After the operation, your dog will likely be tired for the remainder of the day
You must be available to watch your dog and make sure he doesn’t lick the stitches or wounds. Your veterinarian will supply you with an Elizabethan collar to keep your dog from licking the incision.
While the stitches are removed, you must monitor the site of surgery daily. You should report any problems with it to your vet as soon as possible.
If you’ve had a Boston terrier neutered, you’ll be surprised by how quickly your dog bounces back! The surgery is usually less invasive than the spay procedure, and the incision site is very small.
Your dog will need a week or two of recovery after neutering. If you’re unsure about the recovery time, consider letting your dog have it done in advance so you can monitor the process and follow your dog’s health.
A male Boston terrier’s testicles and epididymides will be removed during the surgery
The procedure is less invasive than spaying and can reduce the risk of prostate and testicular disease. It is also possible for your dog to gain weight after the surgery, so it’s important to keep an eye on your pet’s weight afterward.
You should also watch for signs of a lowered sex drive, as this can signal that he’s undergoing a surgical procedure.
Meet Rose Camilla, an expert in the Terrier dog breed and an active writer and publisher. Camilla has been working with Terriers for over 12 years and her passion for them has only grown stronger with time. She has dedicated her life to understanding, training, and writing about Terriers.