A visitor to our web site emailed the following question this morning:
Dear Sir,
I have NEVER had a dog, but when my cat died my husband let me get a dog. I decided on a Toy Poodle. He is seven months old now. I was wondering if it was cruel to have him fixed. I do have papers but I never sent them off. I am also going to have a chip put in, just in case he ever gets lost. Thank you for your advice. Toni
Dear Toni,
Seven months - or even earlier - is perhaps the best age to have your male toy poodle neutered. Set up an appointment with your veterinarian so that your pet can have the operation sooner rather than later. It is not a cruel procedure. In fact, it can help your pet to be a healthier dog because neutering prevents testicular cancer. Neutering a dog also discourages some undesirable behaviors such as territory marking or peeing in the house.
By the way, spaying a female toy poodle protects her against breast cancer and pregnancy and we recommend that procedure for the little girl dogs. We don’t think pets should be bred.
Although a microchip might be a good idea, I think it is important to keep your dog indoors or under your supervision at all times. Small dogs are usually indoor dogs. When you take your boy outside to do his business or for walks, he should be on a harness or leash for his safety. Microchipping can help you recover your pet in case he were separated from you in a natural disaster, however. We read about some pets who were reunited with their families after Hurricane Katrina. Seek your veterinarian’s advice on the microchipping to see if it’s a good idea for your pet.
As for your toy poodle’s “papers,’ it is not too late to register your toy poodle. I would encourage you to do that - if just for the fun of knowing your dog is registered and has an "official" registered name.
Until next time,
Mr. Dibs (who is neutered, of course, and none the worse for it)
