Spay, Neuter, or Wait?
The Independent Vet — Season 1, Episode 7 Released May 6, 2026
Featuring: Dr. Beth Barrett, DVM Host: Michael Dargie Runtime: 38:15
Episode Overview
In this episode of The Independent Vet, host Michael Dargie sits down with Dr. Beth Barrett of Barrett Veterinary Practice to unpack one of the most common—and most debated—questions in pet care: when should you spay or neuter your pet?
What starts as a seemingly simple topic quickly becomes a thoughtful conversation about hormones, health, behaviour, breed differences, and responsible pet ownership. Dr. Beth explains why spaying and neutering have long been recommended to help prevent unwanted litters, while also exploring newer research that shows timing matters—especially for certain dog breeds.
From growth plates and orthopedic health to cancer risks, urinary incontinence, aggression myths, and options like vasectomy or ovary-sparing spays, this episode reminds pet owners that there is no one-size-fits-all answer. The best choice depends on your pet’s species, breed, size, lifestyle, and health risks—and it should always involve a real conversation with your veterinarian.
Quotables
“Spaying and neutering is not just ‘fixing’ a problem. It’s way more complicated than that.” — Dr. Beth Barrett
“Hormones are not just used for reproductive purposes. Hormones have a lot of function in our bodies.” — Dr. Beth Barrett
“Testosterone is very involved in orthopedic health and closure of growth plates.” — Dr. Beth Barrett
“It is not one size fits all.” — Dr. Beth Barrett
“If your head is spinning just a little, I think that’s the right reaction. This topic deserves more than just a one-line answer.” — Michael Dargie
“An educated client is a better client.” — Dr. Beth Barrett
“You’ve got to respect those chemicals.” — Dr. Beth Barrett
Key Moments
00:00 – Welcome and Introduction
Michael introduces the topic of spaying, neutering, and waiting—and admits he once thought the answer was simple.
01:07 – What Spay and Neuter Actually Mean
Dr. Beth explains the basic goal: preventing pregnancy, while noting there are different surgical options for both males and females.
02:34 – Why Spaying and Neutering Became the Default
The conversation explores overpopulation, shelter medicine, unwanted litters, and why prevention remains an important goal.
04:28 – Why “Fixing” Isn’t the Whole Story
Dr. Beth explains why she avoids the word “fixing” and why removing reproductive organs can affect more than reproduction.
05:40 – The Role of Hormones
Estrogen and testosterone are discussed as powerful hormones that influence metabolism, growth, behaviour, orthopedic health, and more.
08:30 – Why Timing Depends on the Pet
Dr. Beth highlights research showing that breed, size, and species all matter when deciding when to spay or neuter.
09:55 – Orthopedic Health and Growth Plates
The episode dives into ACL/CCL injuries, growth plate closure, and why early spay/neuter can affect body structure in some dogs.
13:19 – Cancer Risks and Breed Differences
Dr. Beth explains how spaying and neutering may reduce some cancer risks while increasing others in certain breeds.
16:34 – Behaviour, Anxiety, and Aggression Myths
The discussion challenges the assumption that spaying or neutering automatically improves aggression or temperament.
18:03 – Urinary Incontinence in Spayed Dogs
Dr. Beth explains the link between estrogen and bladder control, especially in older spayed female dogs.
19:48 – What About Cats?
Cats are discussed separately, including population control, intact male behaviour, and the current limitations of research.
23:52 – Older Pets and Pyometra Risk
Dr. Beth explains why intact older female dogs and cats can be at risk for pyometra, a serious and potentially life-threatening uterine condition.
26:09 – Vasectomy, Ovary-Sparing Spay, and Other Options
The conversation covers alternatives to traditional spay and neuter procedures, including vasectomy and ovary-sparing spays.
34:18 – Myth or Muzzle
Myth: “Female dogs or cats should have one litter before being spayed.” Dr. Beth gives this one a clear myth.
35:31 – Mailbag: Biscuit the Golden Retriever
A listener asks when to spay a seven-month-old Golden Retriever. Dr. Beth explains why she would likely wait until growth plates are closed.
36:39 – Final Takeaway
The episode wraps with the reminder that timing depends on the individual pet—and a good conversation with your vet is key.
About Dr. Beth Barrett
Dr. Beth Barrett is a veterinarian and clinic owner at Barrett Veterinary Practice in Alberta. She’s passionate about helping pet owners make informed, practical decisions that improve the quality and longevity of their animals’ lives.
Resources
Barrett Veterinary Practice: https://barrettvet.ca
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/barrettveterinarypractice/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/barrettveterinarypractice
UC Davis breed-specific spay/neuter guidelines: https://www.ucdavis.edu/health/news/when-should-you-neuter-or-spay-your-dog
This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only. Always consult your veterinarian for medical advice specific to your pet.
