Hi,

I have a 7 month old Working Cocker Spaniel and I am trying to find out when the best time will be to have her spayed? I know some vets (mine for one) say as early as 6 months, but my feeling was to leave it until she (Willow) was older and had time to physically mature. Can any one tell me at what age a Working Cocker is considered to be an adult dog?

I am terrified of having her "done"  (in case anything goes wrong), plus I worry what the effects will be long-term (on joints & bones etc). Both my other girls (Shelties) were left intact and never suffered any of the terrible things that vets say spaying protects against. Any info, help and advice much appriciated.

Norfolk.

hi guest
i have a 12 week old english bull terrier bitch & i was told wait until she has had her third season before spaying! I also own a 2 1/2 year old male sbt,the vet told us to neuter him at 6 months but we left it until he was 1,but i think that it was a bit soon!

Everyones opinion differs really.  Ideally she should have a season first then be spayed between seasons.  Some will say otherwise.
Dawn.

we have always spayed our bitches before their first season, can not tell you why it is something we have always done. your vet will be able to give you more advice on when the best time would be.

Hi Guest, are you under pressure from someone to have the puppy spayed? If your other bitches were left intact, and you didn't have a problem with that. Go with your gut instinct, if you are fearful for her safety, you make your decision and stand by it. Anaesthetics today are safer than ever before, but you cannot ignore the fact that there is a potential risk. Only you can decide. Don't be pushed into anything.
On the subject of when the best time is. If you're going to do it, wait until she is fully mature.
Dawn R.