2021/10/29 - Products
Reinventing the approach to neutering of male dogs
Although neutering of pets is sometimes essential, methods are evolving to meet new societal expectations. At Virbac, we have been offering a reversible alternative to surgical castration for several years. In 2021, we are continuing our efforts to make this alternative available to more and more dog owners throughout the world and to support professionals in adopting this solution that is more respectful of the animal's physical integrity.
Surgical castration has long been the only option for neutering pets. Used in particular to limit the population of stray animals, to prevent certain diseases or to manage undesirable behavior, it is an irreversible act that is increasingly perceived by owners as disrespectful of the animal's well-being, and is even prohibited in some countries in the absence of valid medical reasons. This operation should no longer be considered automatically; in certain cases, alternatives exist, with proven health benefits. For several years, we have been offering a contraceptive implant that reversibly eliminates the effects of sex hormones while preserving the integrity of the animal's body.
In 2021, we are continuing our efforts to make this alternative available to more male dog owners: after Europe, China and Mexico, it is now also available in South Africa and Namibia. Beyond this health solution, our ambition is also to support the change in neutering habits. How do we do this? Through awareness-raising campaigns with owners to present them with the different neutering options, their advantages and disadvantages. We also work to facilitate the access of animal health professionals to new scientific knowledge about neutering. Our goal is to help them improve their practices and meet their clients' expectations through technical training and information sessions conducted in collaboration with recognized experts in animal neutering. Our teams have been actively working on this again this year, particularly in South Africa, but also in China, the United Kingdom and Central and Eastern Europe, with a webinar broadcast live in six languages and fourteen countries!