The big snip

Today was Zeus' big day. He got neutered. Not a lot of fun, but a good day nonetheless, because those testicles were all that stood between him and a new life in a new home.

I'm always amazed that I still run into some Neanderthal, invariably a man, who thinks it's wrong to neuter a dog because he wouldn't want that done to him. Curiously, these same people think nothing of keeping a dog on a chain, outdoors, in the dead of winter. They also don't think their dog needs to ever see a vet, needs heartworm prevention, flea and tick protection, or needs to eat anything other than the cheapest dog food available. Apparently all of that is ok as long as the dog still has his balls.

Pity the man whose sex life is so pathetic and he must live vicariously through his dog.

Zeus will be a better companion dog now that it's done. He won't feel the need to take off after the scent of a female in heat. He will have less cancer risk. Although he seems completely non-aggressive, an intact male tends to bring out aggression and challenges in other males, even neutered males, so Zeus will now be a more peace-promoting member of canine society.

He's a very sweet boy and enjoyed all the attention he got at the vet's office today.

Here is Zeus back at home in the dog yard after the surgery, proving that a neutered male can and will still pee like a boy. I know he's a little sore tonight, but he's got some pain killers, a warm comfy crate in my office, and he will start feeling better tomorrow. A day or two of discomfort is a small price to pay for a lifetime of love and comfort in a good home.

I have a prospective home lined up for him and we are going there on Saturday.