Female dogs that will not be used for breeding should be spayed prior to the first heat cycle. Spaying dogs prior to the first heat cycle not only prevents unwanted pregnancies, but also prevents life threatening uterine infections and mammary cancer later in life. Spaying is the surgical removal of both ovaries and the uterus. Your dog will be placed under general anesthesia for this procedure. The surgery is done commonly, however, it is important to remember that it is major abdominal surgery and recovery time from surgery will be needed.