TMLover92

Sorry Mavis the photos are too big to upload and I'm not sure how to make them smaller

aussielover I'd heard that it's pointless performing an ovariectomy on a giant size dog purely because there's no point in leaving the uterus if she isn't getting the benefit of leaving her ovaries. I've finally managed to find a surgeon at a University who is willing to discuss performing a tubal ligation or an ovary sparing spay. They aren't usually performed but many of the specialists at the uni have been getting requests from owners asking about these procedures. Maybe we're starting a trend?

Thank you to everyone for your advice. I've contacted a couple of universities and searched for repro vets. I'm willing to wait until she's reached maturity before spaying if I need to. It would be preferable to not have to put her through two surgeries. Thanks again :)

I am the proud owner of a beautiful 7 month old Tibetan Mastiff bitch. I wanted some advice and opinions regarding what is turning out to be quite a controversial topic in my opinion. We have always desexed our dogs. That's been a given where I'm from. When my boyfriend and I decided to get another dog, and eventually found the TM breed- I researched as much as I could and spoke to owners of other large/giant breed dogs. Most dog owners I've spoken to suggest delaying spaying until maturity is reached, in which case my girl will be around 3. Another option I've been strongly considering is tubal ligation. I understand she will still come on heat but she'll also get the full benefit of her growth hormones without the risk of unwanted puppies- seems like a win/win. As I understand it, not many vets perform this procedure in Australia. I've joined forums and groups on facebook and after speaking to many overseas dog owners, trainers, breeders and vets I've found that in many countries, especially in Europe, full spaying and neutering is extremely rare and in a lot of cases, only done if there is a medical need for it. The most popular ways to prevent unwanted litters seems to be tubal ligation/vasectomies or supervision. After hearing this I just assumed that maybe Australia is behind with regards to other sterilisation techniques. I have also heard from some vets from overseas that they find these procedures easier and less invasive. A few vets in Australia do perform these procedures, however I can't seem to find any in SE QLD. A lot of vets around my area disregard the topic completely and I'm getting quite disheartened. I understand the benefits of fully spaying and I can appreciate that this is often the best coarse of action for many dogs, however, I want to do what I feel is best for my pet. I would love for her to reach full maturity with the help of those growth/sex hormones without the risk of getting pregnant. I do understand the risks of pyometra and mammary cancer, however I also understand that these illnesses tend to appear in older dogs and if monitored closely, as my dog will be, I will be able to avoid any serious conditions. There's also the argument that spaying after 6 years old can increase longevity for up to 3 years. If you respond to this, please don't presume I'm being an irresponsible pet owner for not wanting to completely spay my dog. I only want what is best for her overall and from what I've read and heard from other people in my position, I feel as though tubal ligation may be it. If anyone would care to comment and give advice or if anyone knows of any vets who perform this procedure in SE QLD I would greatly appreciate it. (I've had the yellow pages out and googled as many vets as I can and no luck so far) Thanks again :D (I've attached a picture of my baby girl at 8 weeks old- I may be biased but she's without a doubt the most adorable puppy ever! )