Ive decided to have my bitch sprayed at 6 months. She has a umbillica hernia and the vets suggested that if we were getting her sprayed to wait until then to get it sorted. But they did say they'd like to get it sorted sooner rather than later.
Also I have a male dog who, although neutored, still has all the desires of an intact male.
And i dont think its fair for him to have an in season bitch in the house and equally I dont want her to be mounted every few mins. They have a great relationship at the min and Id be worried that his sexual intentions may not be welcome and become a source of tension.
Ive heard of it causing incontenance, however I know of bitchs sprayed after their first and second seasons and still suffering with it. So i dont think its as clear cut that waiting till after their first season will stop it. If they going to get it they prob will. I also know bitches who stuggled with phantom pregnancys which have resulted in longer term behavioural problems.
It also happens that she turns 6 months when im off work for a site shut down. So it means Ill be around to manage walking my oldest male seperately so he can off lead walks while she can have her own leaded walks. Plus ill be around during the day to make sure shes not in any destress and isnt licking or chewing her stitches.
Theres no clear cut right or wrong answer so sometimes you have to do whats right for you and your family situation. Theres medical, social and convenince reasons for us to get her done at 6 months so thats what we're planning on doing