So I've made a decision - I'm not booking Beti in to be spayed. Firstly, and being totally honest, I can't face it, the fear is just too great. If I was going to do it, I thought doing it now would be the right thing to do, but, well, I just can't.
Last night I told Katrina of my decision and her reply took me aback ... I've always known that neutering a dog too young can cause joint disorders, the sex hormones are needed to close the growth plates, but until she mentioned it last night I honestly wasn't aware that there was a risk to older dogs.
*****
"Neutering a middle-aged dog can increase the risk of orthopaedic disorders, including osteoarthritis, particularly in larger breeds, because it removes the influence of sex hormones that normally help with proper growth plate closure and bone development. This risk is greater for dogs neutered at a younger age, but there is evidence of an association between neutering and joint disorders even in older dogs, with some studies finding increased incidences in neutered vs. intact dogs, regardless of age. The specific risks can vary by breed and sex, so it's important to discuss the decision with your veterinarian, considering your dog's individual circumstances and breed predispositions. The impact of neutering on joint health varies significantly by breed and size. Larger, giant breeds, like Irish Wolfhounds and Great Danes, may show no increased risk, while others, such as Golden Retrievers and Labrador Retrievers, have a higher predisposition. Neutering is associated with a higher incidence of common orthopaedic issues, such as hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and cranial cruciate ligament ruptures. While the risk of joint disorders is significantly higher with early, prepubertal neutering, some studies indicate that neutering at any age can be associated with an increased risk of orthopaedic issues in certain breeds compared to intact dogs."
