08/21/2025
We all agree on the importance of preventing unwanted litters, but it may be time to rethink how it’s done. Hysterectomies and vasectomies can be performed safely as early as 8 weeks, providing sterilization without disrupting a dog’s natural hormones.
“Removal of the go**ds with surgical sterilization results in a loss of negative feedback to the hypothalamus and anterior pituitary. The sustained supraphysiologic luteinizing hormone (LH) concentrations in g***dectomized dogs can significantly alter organ function and even induce neoplastic changes. For example, g***d removal has a profound effect on thyroid function and is reported to be the most significant cause for the development of hypothyroidism in dogs. Thirty percent more g***dectomized dogs develop hypothyroidism compared with intact dogs. Within the canine thyroid, LH receptors are co-localized with thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) receptors.
Continuous LH receptor activation in g***dectomized dogs may interfere TSH receptor function by consuming second messengers involved in G-protein receptor cell signaling, preventing the action of TSH when it binds to its receptor in the thyroid, resulting in hypothyroidism. The incidence of anterior cruciate ligament ruptures is significantly increased following g***d removal independent of breed, s*x, weight or body condition. Luteinizing hormone receptors are expressed in the cruciate ligament and continuous LH receptor activation may increase laxity in these ligaments, resulting in joint instability. Both male and female g***dectomized dogs are at a significantly increased risk for lymphoma and hemangiosarcoma. Luteinizing hormone receptors are also abundant in these tissues. Research in four canine hemangiosarcoma cell lines found that LH receptor activation induces cell proliferation. In addition, research in three canine T-cell lymphoma cell lines found that LH receptor activation induces cell proliferation, adhesion, and invasion as well as increases LH receptor expression. Research is needed to determine if LH reducing strategies using g***dotropin releasing hormone agonists will increase remission times in g***dectomized dogs with LH receptor-positive tumors. In conclusion, among the non-reproductive functions of go**ds, suppression of LH secretion and resulting LH receptor overexpression appear necessary in maintaining endocrine, musculoskeletal, and anti-neoplastic health.”
