Neutering (castration for male dogs and spaying for female dogs) is a surgical procedure where a dog’s reproductive capability is altered rendering them incapable of producing off springs. Most veterinarians suggest performing the procedure before a dog’s first heat, that is, roughly six months for females and 8 months for male dogs or before your dog starts to look for a mate.

As a surgical procedure, aside from health and medical preparations, it may also entail financial preparations. The following are factors that may affect on how much neutering your dog may cost you:

·       Weight – The bigger the size of your dog, the bigger the weight and the bigger the cost. A bigger dog may use more drugs, more staff aid and a longer surgical period than a smaller one; and therefore, may mean additional costs.

·       Type of surgery – The type surgery used may vary depending on the gender of your dog. As opposed to male dogs where only the testicles will be removed requiring only an external incision, female canines require open abdominal surgery to remove the ovaries. Therefore, since female dogs require an extensive surgery, a bigger fee is also required. Also, a laser surgery (less painful, produces less bleeding and swelling and more precise) maybe more expensive.

·       Type of veterinary clinic – Cost for neutering may also depend on the type of veterinary clinic you may have to bring your dog into. A private animal hospital commands a higher fee, whereas you can pay less in low cost and government/organization subsidized clinics.

·       Pre-surgical procedures – Veterinarians may require performing pre-anesthesia blood work to your dog to test for anesthesia and drug allergies, and may mean additional expense. If your dog has not been vaccinated, some veterinarians may require that you have your dog vaccinated prior to the procedure.

Therefore, how much does neutering a dog cost? Considering the factors previously stated; neutering a dog may range from as low as $45 from a low cost clinic to as high as $300 from a private animal hospital. Neutering your dog from a low cost or government funded clinic ranges from $45 – $175, while private clinics charge up to $200 – $300. Depending on the extra medications and procedures your dog may require, additional costs may reach up to $10 – $50.

Neutering a dog may bite a portion of your wallet. Should the cost be your concern, it is best that you ask and seek information. There are discounts being offered and programs available that may ease up the burden. As man’s best friend and loyal companion, it is only but proper for you to allow them to experience the quality of life that neutering may provide.