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  • Spaying is the common term for the surgical procedure known as an ovariohysterectomy. In this procedure, the ovaries and uterus are removed to sterilize a female dog. This operation requires a general anesthetic and complications are rare. Spaying is recommended to prevent ovarian and uterine cancer, prevent unwanted pregnancy, and reduce the risk of mammary cancer and pyometra.

  • There are many health and behavioral benefits associated with spaying your rabbit, such as preventing unwanted pregnancies, reducing her risk for reproductive cancers, and minimizing the stress associated with sexual frustration. This handout explains the surgical procedure, post-operative care at home, and, although rare, possible complications that may occur.

  • Spaying is a surgery that prevents a female rat from becoming pregnant. An ovariohysterectomy is when the veterinarian removes both ovaries and the uterus. In an ovariectomy, the veterinarian removes only the ovaries. Spaying at an early age eliminates the risk of ovarian and uterine cancer and reduces the risk of breast and pituitary gland cancers in rats.

  • Canine grooming is important. Dogs should be kept clean, be brushed often, and get clipped as needed. If you want to do something more unique, like applying nail polish or hair dye, choose a canine-approved product that is appropriately applied while the dog is monitored.

  • The two groups of spiders responsible for most medically significant spider bites include the widow spiders (Latrodectus spp., including the black widow spider) and the recluse spiders (Loxosceles spp., including the brown recluse). The clinical signs and treatment of black widow and brown recluse spider bites vary significantly due to differences in their venom.

  • Spinetoram topical (brand name Cheristin®) is an insecticide used to prevent and treat flea infestations in cats and kittens. Avoid use in dogs. It comes in a liquid drop form.

  • Spinosad (brand name Comfortis®) is an antiparasitic used to kill adult fleas and to prevent and treat flea infestations in dogs and cats. It may be used off label (extra label) to treat other parasites and in other animals. It comes in an oral tablet form.

  • Spironolactone is given by mouth and is used off label to treat congestive heart failure, fluid accumulation, and other cardiovascular problems.

  • Spironolactone + benazepril (brand name Cardalis®) is a combination aldosterone antagonist (spironolactone) and angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor or ACE inhibitor (benazepril) used to treat certain types of congestive heart failure in dogs. Use to treat other heart conditions or in other species is "off label" or "extra label". Spironolactone + benazepril comes in chewable meat-flavored tablet form.

  • Spironolactone + hydrochlorothiazide is a combination aldosterone antagonist (spironolactone) and thiazide diuretic (hydrochlorothiazide) used to remove excess fluid and salt from the body in cats and dogs. This medication can be used in combination with other drugs to lower blood pressure and for protective effects on the heart muscle. It has also been used in dogs with fluid-up in the abdomen due to liver failure.