Vets Blog

Spaying Dogs in Heat

6 August 2024

Dogs can be spayed while they are in heat. When a dog is in heat, there is increased blood flow to the uterus and ovaries, which are usually both removed during a spay procedure. This increases the risk of tearing of the uterus as well as excessive bleeding. The duration of the surgery will also be increased which adds to the risk of anaestheia and its complications.

Important information to know:

A newly spayed-while-in-heat bitch will still attract male dogs for 10-14 days post spay.

If a male dog successfully ties with this female, there could be severe trauma to the surgery site which can have horrible consequences.

If a dog is spayed within the first two months after being in heat, an exaggerated false pregnancy is likely to occur. Following sterilization, the sudden hormonal drop can stimulate milk letdown, nesting behaviour, restlessness and decreased interest in physical activity.

Spaying a dog in heat typically requires up to 30 minutes of additional surgery time which will increase the cost of the surgery.

Keeping the above mentioned points in mind, if you would like us to spay your dog while it is in heat, we are glad to do so. If you would prefer to wait, it is ideal to wait until your dog has been out of heat for three months.

If your dog is showing symptoms of heat prior to their scheduled appointment, please kindly let us know as preventative measures can be taken to make it a safer surgery.

Author: Dora Khalili