[Gpdd] HEALTH: Response to Samantha on neutering

[alicia rogers]

Samantha:  Just my 2cents.....My male Trix was neutered in July; I wanted it done because I very much wanted CocoPuff (female) and he to be able to live together and I did not want to risk any "accidents" and end up with a litter of babies.  That's just not an option for me.  Prior to making the decision, I also appealed to the members of this digest.   I got so many helpful responses -- about surgery or no surgery;  after care;  how to introduce my two babies after the waiting period.    The best advice I can give you is find a vet you can trust.  Even if you have to visit more than one.  Here in Texas we are blessed to be so close to Texas A&M -  it is relatively easy to find the correct vet.  Other areas of the country are not so lucky.  Finding a good vet for your guinea pig may take some time.   Trix had a consult before his surgery and our vet very patiently answered every question I could come up, his staff was very helpful and understanding about my nervousness.  (My guinea
 pig vet and my dog's vet are two different doctors because my dog's vet did not have as much experience with gp's as the other one that was recommended to me).    
 
The day of his surgery Trix arrived in a pet carried with hay and water.  I made sure he had eaten that morning.  He was calm and happy when I dropped him off.   That afternoon when I picked him up and placed him back in his carrier he immediately started to munch on the hay, so I knew he would be OK.    He healed so quickly and was back to normal so soon I could hardly believe it.  I was really prepared for a longer recovery time.  Today he is healthy and happily living with CocoPuff.  
 
Bottom line is --- it all depends on the vet.  You need an experienced vet who has worked with MANY guinea pigs, not just a few. Call around in your area and ask questions.  Is my pet a good candidate for this surgery?  How many gp's have you neutered?   What is your success rate?  How do you feel about pain medication afterward?  Can I reach you after hours if I have a problem?  Any vet (or his/her staff) who doesn't want to take time with you is not the right vet;  keep trying.  
 
You may ultimately decide against it because of lack of adequate care.  The problem is, the decision is yours and it's not easy.   I personally am very glad we had Trix neutered.  For us it was the right decision.  Do a little research on guinealynx.com or cavyspirit.com.  These may be able to answer your questions or help you come up with others to ask your vet.  I wish you the best of luck in making your decision.