Spaying Dogs: Different Methods and Why We Choose OVH

A Note Before We Begin

At Dog Desk Animal Action we’d like to share our perspective on the different types of spay surgery. What follows reflects our experience and the realities of the rescue work we do. It’s not intended to replace veterinary advice. Every dog is different, so please always speak with your own vet before deciding what’s best for your pet.

Why Spaying Matters

Spaying (neutering female dogs) is one of the most important things we can do to improve the health of dogs and to stop unwanted litters. But did you know there’s more than one way to spay a dog?

Different countries and vets have different approaches, and while all of them prevent pregnancy, the details can make a big difference.

The Main Types of Spaying

• Ovariohysterectomy (OVH)
  This is the traditional method, especially common in the UK and the US. Both the ovaries and the uterus are removed. It’s a tried and tested operation that vets are very familiar with.

• Ovariectomy (OVE)
  This method, more common in mainland Europe, removes just the ovaries and leaves the uterus in place. Because the ovaries are gone, the dog can’t come into season and can’t get pregnant.

• Laparoscopic (Keyhole) Spay
  A newer, less invasive approach where tiny cameras and instruments are used. It means smaller cuts, less pain, and quicker recovery, but it does require expensive equipment and specialist training.

• Ovary-Sparing Spay
  A less common option where the uterus is removed but the ovaries stay. This means the dog can’t get pregnant but will still show signs of coming into season.

Why Europe Loves OVE

In countries like the Netherlands, Belgium, France, and Germany, OVE is the standard spay method. Research has shown it’s safe, effective, and prevents the same health issues as OVH, such as womb infections (pyometra) and mammary cancers.

Why Dog Desk Animal Action Doesn’t Choose OVE

At Dog Desk Animal Action, our focus is on large-scale sterilisation projects, often in challenging conditions. For us, OVH makes more sense than OVE, and here’s why:

• One surgery, no risks left behind
  Although OVE is considered safe, the uterus remains inside the dog. On the very rare chance something later goes wrong with it, the dog might need more surgery. With OVH, everything is removed in one go.

• Consistency
  When teams are working with many dogs, it’s important that everyone is trained the same way and using the same tools. Sticking to OVH makes sure things run smoothly and safely.

• Reaching more dogs
  The faster and simpler the surgery, the more dogs can be spayed with the resources we have. OVH helps us help more animals.

The Bottom Line

OVE is a good option for pet dogs in Europe. But in the kind of rescue work we do, helping stray and vulnerable dogs, OVH is the most reliable and practical choice for us.

Different situations call for different approaches, but what matters most is that dogs are spayed safely, preventing suffering and reducing the number of unwanted litters.

This article reflects the viewpoint of Dog Desk Animal Action. It may not match the advice you’ll receive for your own dog. Please always consult your vet to decide what’s best for your individual pet.