Ovary-sparing spay: consideration, case selection and client education

The question of the best time to surgically sterilize companion animals has become a hot topic among veterinarians, breeders, humane groups and individual pet owners. The American College of Theriogenologists and the Society for Theriogenology believe that companion animals not intended for breeding should be spayed or neutered; however both organizations believe that the decision to spay or neuter a pet must be made on a case by case basis taking into consideration the pet’s age, breed, sex, intended use, household environment and temperament.1 Surgical sterilization timing and methodology has become an important topic for companion animal owners. Should we do early spay, ovariohysterectomy, ovary sparing spay, or ovariectomy? ...