Traditional Spay vs. Ovary-Sparing Surgery in Dogs: What You Need to Know (Part 2)

At Westway Animal Clinic, we understand that choosing the right sterilization procedure for your dog is an important decision. Traditionally, ovariohysterectomy (OVH) has been the standard spay procedures. However, now ovariectomy (OVE) and ovary-sparing spay (OSS) are an emerging option that offers an alternative approach. Below, we’ll compare these procedures to help you make an informed decision for your pet’s health and well-being.

What Is a Traditional Spay?

A traditional spay can be performed in two ways:

1. Ovariohysterectomy (OVH) – Removal of both ovaries and the uterus.
2. Ovariectomy (OVE) – Removal of the ovaries while leaving the uterus intact.

Benefits of Traditional Spay (OVH/OVE):

• Eliminates the risk of pyometra, a life-threatening uterine infection.
• Reduces the risk of mammary tumors if done before the first heat.
• Prevents hormone-related behaviors such as heat cycles and marking.

Potential Concerns:

• Loss of reproductive hormones may increase the risk of certain orthopedic issues, obesity, and urinary incontinence.
• Some dogs may experience behavioral changes post-spay.

For further reading on traditional spay options, visit: DVM360

What Is Ovary-Sparing Spay (OSS)?

Ovary-sparing spay involves the removal of the uterus while keeping the ovaries intact. This means your dog will no longer be able to get pregnant, but will continue to produce natural reproductive hormones.

Benefits of OSS:

• Maintains natural hormone production, which supports bone health, metabolism, and behavior.
• May lower the risk of orthopedic diseases and some cancers.
• Less risk of obesity compared to traditional spay procedures.

Potential Concerns:

• Dogs will continue to experience heat cycles, potentially attracting male dogs.
• There is a risk of stump pyometra if any uterine tissue remains.
• Requires precise surgical technique to prevent complications.

For more details on ovary-sparing spay, visit: Parsemus Foundation

Recent Scientific Studies on Sterilization Procedures

Recent studies have analyzed the health and behavioral outcomes of different sterilization procedures:

• A Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association study found that longer exposure to gonadal hormones was associated with reduced odds of general health problems and nuisance behaviors. (PubMed)
• A 2023 study on laparoscopic-assisted ovary-sparing spay concluded that this minimally invasive technique is a safe and reliable method of sterilization with no increased risk of pyometra. However, owners must be educated on managing heat cycles. (PubMed)

For more studies, visit PubMed and search for “ovariohysterectomy dogs,” “ovariectomy dogs,” and “ovary-sparing spay dogs.”

Comparison of Procedures

Procedure	Hormone Production	Risk of Pyometra	Heat Cycles	Behavioral Changes
Ovariohysterectomy (OVH)	No	Eliminated	No	Possible anxiety or weight gain
Ovariectomy (OVE)	No	Low (if the uterus is healthy)	No	Similar to OVH
Ovary-Sparing Spay	Yes	Possible if any uterine tissue remains	Yes	Less likely

Which Procedure Is Right for Your Dog?

Every dog is unique, and the best sterilization procedure depends on their individual health, lifestyle, and long-term wellness goals. If you have questions or would like to discuss your options further, please contact us and schedule consultation with our veterinarians.

We are here to support you in making the best decision for your pet’s health and happiness!

Citations

1. DVM360. “Performing Ovariectomy in Dogs and Cats.” Available at: DVM360
2. Parsemus Foundation. “Ovary-Sparing Spay Review.” Available at: Parsemus Foundation
3. Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association. “Health Outcomes in Dogs Based on Gonadal Hormone Exposure.” Available at: PubMed
4. 2023 Study on Laparoscopic-Assisted Ovary-Sparing Spay. Available at: PubMed