Using specialised equipment and a tiny camera, this advanced surgical technique allows our veterinary team to perform desexing through just two small incisions, offering a less invasive alternative to a traditional spey.

What is a Laparoscopic Spey?

During a traditional spey, an incision is made into the abdomen and the ovaries and uterus are removed.

With a laparoscopic spey, only two small incisions are required. A specialised camera allows the surgeon to clearly see inside the abdomen while using fine surgical instruments to remove the ovaries only, leaving the uterus in place.

Removing the ovaries provides the hormonal benefits of desexing and prevents future seasons and pregnancy.

Why Choose Keyhole Surgery?

There are several benefits to laparoscopic surgery for suitable dogs:

• Less discomfort: The smaller incisions and reduced manipulation of tissues can mean less post-operative pain compared with a traditional spey.
• Faster recovery: With smaller surgical wounds and less tissue trauma, recovery is generally quicker.
• Smaller wounds: Smaller incisions can reduce wound-related complications and make recovery more comfortable.
• Less tissue handling: The laparoscopic technique allows excellent visualisation of the ovaries and blood vessels while minimising unnecessary handling of abdominal tissues.

Is My Dog Suitable?

Laparoscopic speys at Vetwest Whitfords are currently available for suitable female dogs:

• Weighing between 13kg and 40kg
• Ideally before their first season
• Dogs who have already had up to three seasons may also be suitable

If your dog has previously had abdominal surgery, please let our team know so our veterinarians can determine whether laparoscopic surgery is appropriate for her.

What if My Dog Has Been in Season?

A laparoscopic spey cannot be performed while your dog is in season (on heat).

If she has recently finished a season, we generally recommend waiting approximately 3–4 months before surgery. This allows the reproductive tissues and associated blood supply to return to normal, helping to reduce surgical risk.

A Bigger Haircut – But Smaller Incisions!

One thing that can surprise owners is the amount of fur that needs to be clipped.

Although the surgical incisions themselves are very small, we need to clip a wider area across your dog's abdomen and sides than we would for a traditional spey. This allows us to correctly position the specialised laparoscopic equipment and maintain a sterile surgical field.

So, while your dog may leave hospital sporting a rather impressive temporary haircut, her fur will grow back normally!

Are There Any Risks?

All surgical procedures carry some degree of risk.One of the main potential complications with both traditional and laparoscopic speys is bleeding associated with the ovarian or uterine blood vessels. Rare complications can also include unintended trauma to nearby abdominal organs, such as the spleen or bladder.

Your dog's safety always comes first.

If our veterinary surgeon encounters a complication during keyhole surgery, it may be necessary to convert to a traditional open procedure with a larger incision. This allows the surgeon to safely manage the situation and provide your dog with the best possible care.

Interested in Keyhole Desexing for Your Dog?

Because laparoscopic speys require specialised equipment, surgical preparation and scheduling, appointments cannot currently be booked online.

Our Vetwest Whitfords team would be happy to discuss whether keyhole surgery is suitable for your dog and answer any questions you may have.

Vetwest Whitfords Hospital

📞 08 9404 1133

Speak with our team today to find out whether laparoscopic desexing could be the right choice for your dog.