I wasn't sure where this would go but I thought others would find it as interesting as I have.

Interesting. Thanks for posting Caitlin!

That is a very interesting video indeed, it's certainly a lot to think about. Although I wonder, Since she put an emphasis on how these health risks were much higher if you spayed or neutered at or before 6 months of age; if someone didn't spay or neuter until 12 or 18 months then how much would the health risks be lowered by if at all?

Great info and very interesting. Thanks for sharing!

Interesting. Loki was from a rescue who fix all dogs. He was fixed at 12 weeks. He is now 55lbs at 6 months old. It appears from his paws and growth plates that he has a lot of growing to do. I wonder if his early surgery is part of the reason he is so big. The vet indicated he may reach 80-90lbs. Hopefully if spaying and neutering is indeed bad particularly when done early, in years to come shelters will catch up like they have with advising on declawing cats.

What really is upsetting is that many recommend to get shelter puppies and dogs, but then often many choices such as timing of surgery are taken away from you. Whereas if you get from a breeder you can make choices you agree with based on information if you find. Things like this may me go back and forth on if I will adopt from shelter in future.

Thanks for sharing!

Aidan, from my understanding the research suggests that waiting does cause less issues, mentally and physically. I love stumbling upon stuff like this and learning about it :3

Initially I had the same thoughts regarding rescues, but since most rescue dogs still end up in less than great homes I personally agree that the early ssterilization of pups in shelters is a lot better than what could happen to the dogs if left intact and adopted out, unless vets start learning the sterilization techniques that leave the animals intact. And since realistically shelters can't afford to hold pups to be sterilized at an older age it's the best option they have for preventing and saving lives. I'll still adopt from a shelter, since it's increased chances of issues when altered early, not a for sure thing. But then again I would adopt an adult from a shelter, since I'm not a fan of pups, so I guess that's a little different haha

Over all I think it's a great food for thought video!

It has definitely sparked my interest in researching more. My contract with my breeder states I have until 18 months to spay.

Maybe you could work it out to be later if you showed sources and such if that's what you end up wanting for your pup?

That is very interesting to know, thanks dahowlers! I'd still neuter of course, but it might be a good idea to put try and put it off for awhile...

This video was really informative and interesting. Thanks for sharing!