(Laparoscopic Ovariectomy) – less pain, smaller wounds and, in most cases, home the same day
Looking for a keyhole spay for your dog in Knutsford or elsewhere in Cheshire? At Knutsford Veterinary Surgery we perform keyhole spays, also known as laparoscopic ovariectomy, in our own state-of-the-art theatres in Knutsford. Using a camera and specialist instruments through two tiny incisions, it is a gentler alternative to a traditional spay, with less pain, a quicker recovery and, in the majority of cases, your dog home with you the same day.
As an independent, family-owned practice, we will give you honest, tailored advice on whether a keyhole spay is right for your dog, and when.
A keyhole spay is a minimally invasive procedure that serves as an alternative to the routine spaying method. Through the use of advanced surgical techniques and specialised instruments, this procedure enables us to remove just the ovaries. We use a camera to visualise the ovaries, which aids in the precise removal with minimal discomfort for your pet. The entire procedure leaves your pets with two small incisions, ranging from 0.3-1cm, which are glued together. This eliminates the need for suture removal and contributes to a faster recovery period.
The main difference is how the surgery is performed. A keyhole spay uses a camera and fine instruments through two tiny incisions, rather than one larger opening.
| Keyhole spay | Traditional spay | |
|---|---|---|
| Incisions | Two small incisions (0.3–1cm) | One longer incision along the belly |
| What is removed | Ovaries only (ovariectomy) | Usually the ovaries and uterus |
| Pain after surgery | Less, thanks to the minimally invasive technique | More, due to the larger wound |
| Back to normal activities | Most dogs within 2–3 days | Usually 10–14 days of restricted exercise |
| Stitches | Closed under the skin, nothing to remove | May need a check or stitch removal |
| Going home | Same day in the majority of cases | Usually the same day |
| Cost | Higher (specialist equipment and training) | Lower |
Our knowledgable team are always happy to answer your queries, no matter how great or small!
One of the most commonly asked questions we get from pet owners is about the timing of the spay procedure. Advice on this topic can vary. As a minimum for dogs, it is advised to wait until 6 months old. Here at Knutsford Vets Surgery we adopt a personalised approach and assess each dog individually. We recommend discussing this with one of our team to decide what’s best for your pet. If opting for a keyhole spay, the timing doesn’t differ significantly from a traditional spay, but the benefits, as outlined in this guide, do make it an appealing option regardless of when you choose to have the procedure done.
The keyhole spay procedure takes approximately one hour. In the majority of cases your dog can go home with you the same day, which is a big advantage for owners who would rather not leave their pet overnight.
Most dogs are back to their usual activities within 2–3 days, which is remarkably quicker than recovery from a traditional spay. The two small wounds are closed with dissolvable stitches under the skin, so there are no stitches to remove.
Most dogs do not pay any attention to their wounds, but it is important they do not lick them, so occasionally a body suit or collar may be needed. We will send you home with clear aftercare advice and are always on hand if you have any questions.
A keyhole spay costs more than a routine spay, reflecting the specialist equipment and staff training involved, and the price can vary depending on your dog. Many owners feel the more comfortable, quicker recovery is well worth it. Get in touch for a personalised quote for your dog.
Thinking about a keyhole spay for your dog? Tell us a little about her and one of our team will call you back to talk it through, answer your questions and arrange a pre-op consultation.
Since this is a minimally invasive procedure, it naturally results in less pain post-operation, making the experience far less traumatic for your pet.
Most pets can resume their daily activities within 2-3 days, which is remarkably quicker than traditional spaying methods.
With incisions as small as 0.3 – 1cm, the wounds are much easier to manage, reducing the chances of infection.
Smaller wounds mean that the risk of wound breakdown is significantly lowered, making the post-operative phase much safer.
The minimally invasive nature of the procedure results in less bodily trauma and inflammation, further aiding the recovery process.
The procedure takes approximately one hour, and in the majority of cases your dog can go home the same day.
Most dogs are back to their usual activities within 2–3 days, which is much quicker than recovery from a traditional spay.
A keyhole spay costs more than a routine spay because of the specialist equipment and training involved, and the price can vary depending on your dog. Contact us for a personalised quote.
As a minimum for dogs, it is advised to wait until 6 months old. We assess each dog individually and will help you decide the best timing for your pet.
A keyhole spay (laparoscopic ovariectomy) removes the ovaries, which produce the hormones behind seasons and most later uterine problems. Your vet will talk through what is best for your dog at your consultation.
A keyhole spay is an excellent choice for pet owners looking for a less invasive and more comfortable spaying option for their pets. With numerous benefits like faster recovery, reduced post-surgery care and lower risks of complications, it stands as a testament to the advancements in veterinary science and our commitment to offering the best for your pets.
For more details or to arrange a keyhole spay, enquire today or request a call back and the Knutsford Vet Surgery team will be in touch.
We welcome dogs from Knutsford and the surrounding area, including Mobberley, Wilmslow, Holmes Chapel, Northwich and Altrincham. Enquire today to find out whether a keyhole spay is right for your dog.
Tell us about your dog and how you’d like us to get back to you. One of our team will be in touch, usually within one working day.
