Findlay is one lucky dog. The small terrier living in Chile is one of the first dogs in the world to be sterilized without the need for surgery. The procedure took place at Findlay’s home in Santiago, while he was held by his owner, given treats during and after the procedure, and then left as if nothing had happened.
There was no sedation or surgical procedure, but a simple injection of what its creators say is an immunocastration vaccine called Egalitte. Leonardo Saenz, a veterinarian and professor at the University of Chile who developed the vaccine, says that it works by blocking the hormone responsible for reproduction and is reversible.
“If we block this hormone, we do not release gonadotropin and, therefore, we do not release sex hormones and the animal he is in a state of castration”, explains Saenz
The vaccine can be used in both men and women and costs around 60 euros. A prescription and veterinary evaluation is required to ensure the dog is fit to receive the injection. Saenz said the product could also help sterilize animals on a larger scale, as it is less invasive and complicated than surgical castration.
“One dose is much easier and you can vaccinate a larger number of animals if you need to do reproductive control,” he said. The simplicity and reversibility of neutering is what is expected to make many dog owners opt for this method for their pets.
Naftemporiki.gr