Help! We Are Considering OSS Surgery! (Vet Answered)
This question has been answered by a vet
Veterinarian & Animal Behaviorist
With nearly two decades in veterinary medicine, Dr. Paola brings hands-on experience across multiple species. A graduate of the University of Guadalajara, she specializes in preventive care, animal welfare, and positive reinforcement training.
The Question
“Stella is a 5-year-old golden retriever. She has had several litters; the last one required a C-section. We’re seriously considering OSS surgery. Wondering about pros and cons.“ – Sussanne
Quick Info about Stella
Hello Sussanne.
Ovary-sparing spay, often abbreviated as OSS, is a procedure where the uterus is removed but one or both ovaries are left in place. For a dog like Stella, who has already had multiple litters and required a cesarean section, this option is sometimes considered to preserve natural hormone production. Those hormones can support bone density, joint health, and may reduce the risk of certain orthopedic conditions, which is especially relevant in larger breeds like Golden Retrievers. Some evidence also suggests potential behavioral stability compared to traditional spaying, since estrogen continues to play its normal role.
However, OSS is not without important considerations. Because the ovaries remain, Stella will continue to cycle hormonally, meaning she may still show heat-related behaviors such as attracting male dogs, even though she cannot become pregnant. There is also a small but real risk of ovarian-related conditions, including cysts or tumors later in life. Additionally, while removing the uterus eliminates the risk of pyometra, it does not eliminate hormone-driven conditions like mammary tumors, and the timing of surgery relative to previous cycles still matters in risk reduction. Given her history of cesarean surgery, there may also be abdominal adhesions that could make any additional surgery more technically demanding.
In practical terms, OSS can be a thoughtful option in selected cases, but it requires a committed owner who can manage ongoing hormonal cycles and understands the long-term monitoring involved. A thorough discussion with a surgeon experienced in OSS, ideally one comfortable managing post-reproductive patients with prior abdominal surgery, will help determine if this approach aligns with Stella’s overall health and your expectations for her future care.
Sincerely,
– Dr. Paola