Aquia-Garrisonville Animal Hospital
878 Garrisonville Road
P.O. Box 428
Stafford, Virginia  22554-3901
(540) 659-8140
Fax: (540) 659-0941
Canine Alter
(Neuter)

General Information
Altering is the surgical removal of the testicles.  Such surgery is performed to eliminate sexual activities and render the dog sterile.  Altering usually (but not always) reduces a dog's tendency to roam and fight.  The general level of aggression may also be reduced.  However, altering is not a replacement for obedience training by the owner.

In older dogs, altering may be necessary due to disease of the testicles or prostate gland.

Your pet will be given a preoperative physical examination to help ensure its safety during anesthesia and surgery.  Recovery is generally uneventful, and the aftercare is minimal.  Your pet will be discharged from the hospital the same day of procedure.

You will be provided further instructions on home care after the surgery by your doctor.  There is no need for suture removal.  Some male dogs have a desire to lick the surgical site and must be monitored closely for licking/chewing.

Return to the Surgical Information Page