Along with positive socialisation, training and appropriate nutrition, castration is often considered a key component of responsible dog ownership. As well as preventing accidental mating, castration can be beneficial in preventing specific testosterone related disease and can help in the management of some behavioural issues.
However, whilst these are valid reasons for castration, a recent survey showed that 25% of pet owners are concerned or very concerned that neutering could be harmful for their dog. Common concerns cited included the potential risks involved with a surgical procedure and that their dogs’ behaviour would be affected adversely. The permanency of surgery was also the reason for 67% of owners with entire male dogs not opting for surgical castration.
What is chemical castration and how does it work?
Suprelorin is typically administered via a small implant placed under the skin, usually in the neck area. The implant slowly releases the medication over several months, providing long-term suppression of reproductive activity. The duration of effectiveness can vary depending on the individual dog and the dosage used.
Why choose it?
Suprelorin can be a useful option for dog owners who wish to temporarily suppress their dog’s reproductive activity. There are several reasons why you may choose to use Suprelorin, including:
- Control of unwanted sexual behaviours: Suprelorin can help reduce or eliminate unwanted sexual behaviours in male dogs, such as roaming, aggression, and mounting. This can make them easier to manage and less likely to cause problems for their owners or other animals.
- Treatment of reproductive disorders: Suprelorin can be used to treat certain reproductive disorders in dogs, such as benign prostatic hyperplasia and testicular tumours.
- Convenience: Because Suprelorin is administered via a small implant placed under the skin, it provides long-term suppression of reproductive activity without the need for daily medication or frequent veterinary visits.
- Reversibility: Suprelorin is reversible, meaning that the effects will wear off once the medication has been discontinued. This can be important for dog owners who may wish to breed their dog in the future.
- See the effects: Enables owners to see the effects of castration before opting for surgery.
- Choice of implant and duration: Suprelorin is available as half yearly or yearly implants.
It’s important to note that Suprelorin may not be appropriate for all dogs and should only be used under the guidance of a veterinarian. Your veterinarian can help determine if Suprelorin is a good option for your dog based on their individual needs and health status.
What risks are associated with chemical castration?
As with any medication, there are potential risks and side effects associated with the use of Suprelorin in dogs. These include:
- Changes in behaviour: Suprelorin can affect a dog’s behaviour, potentially causing changes in their energy levels, mood, or appetite. Some dogs may become lethargic or less active after receiving the implant, while others may become more aggressive or anxious.
- Allergic reactions: Some dogs may have an allergic reaction to the implant, which could cause symptoms such as swelling, redness, or itching at the site of the implant. In rare cases, a severe allergic reaction could occur, leading to difficulty breathing or anaphylaxis.
- Changes in coat: Some dogs may experience changes in their coat after receiving Suprelorin, such as increased shedding or a change in texture.
- Temporary infertility: While Suprelorin is designed to be reversible, it can cause temporary infertility in male dogs. This means that it may take several months for a dog’s reproductive activity to return to normal after the implant has been removed.
How long does it take chemical castration to take affect?
The length of time it takes for Suprelorin to work in dogs can vary depending on the individual dog and the specific condition being treated. In general, Suprelorin begins to take effect within a few days to weeks after the implant is placed under the skin.
In male dogs, Suprelorin can start to reduce testosterone production within a few days, although it may take several weeks for the full effect to be seen. Dogs may start to show reduced sexual behaviours, such as decreased mounting, roaming, and aggression, within a few weeks of receiving the implant.
What size would you choose?
There are two sizes of implants available, a 4.7mg and a 9.4mg. The choice of implant is based on the desired duration of suppression and not the size of the dog.
What is the duration of suppression for the implant?
The 4.7mg implant suppresses fertility for a period of at least 6 months and the 9.4mg for a period of at least 12 months.
How do I go about organising this?
Suprelorin is specially ordered in for each individual patient. Please give the clinic a call on 03 9707 2655 to place your order, whilst also booking a consultation time for implantation as well. If you would like to discuss whether or not Suprelorin is right for your dog, please book a consultation with a vet to go through all your options in regards to castration to ensure you are making the most informed choice for your pet.