Keyhole Spay

Laparoscopic, or ‘keyhole’ spay, is our recommended approach for neutering all female dogs over 10kg, reflecting the highest standard of care at Mulberry House Vets. For larger breeds, especially those over 25kg, this minimally invasive technique is now our exclusive method due to its substantial benefits.

Keyhole spaying offers several significant advantages compared to traditional open surgery:

• Safer, less invasive procedure with lower risks and reduced surgical trauma.

• Less pain during and after surgery for your dog, contributing to a gentler recovery.

• Smaller wounds —usually without external stitches—promoting faster healing and minimal scarring.

• Quicker recovery times, allowing your dog to return to normal exercise and routines sooner.

We typically recommend neutering female dogs either prior to their first season, or four months after their last season, when oestrogen levels are lowest. This timing helps prevent uterine and ovarian disease and substantially reduces the risk of mammary cancer.

In a traditional spay, both ovaries and the uterus are removed. Keyhole spay removes only the ovaries, which is sufficient to eliminate nearly all risk of uterine diseases, since conditions like infection (pyometra) and cancer in the uterus are hormone-driven and prevented by ovary removal.

For giant breeds (e.g., Great Danes, Dobermans, Newfoundlands) at risk of gastric dilation and volvulus (“GDV” or bloat), we can perform laparoscopic assisted gastropexy alongside neutering—proactively protecting against this potentially life-threatening condition.

Keyhole surgery requires specialist training and investment in advanced equipment, reflected in a surcharge of £415.40 (£373.86 for Mulberry Club members) in addition to the standard neutering fee.

At Mulberry House, our commitment is to ensure your pet receives the best, most compassionate care available—combining modern techniques with a deeply personal approach to veterinary medicine.