I have been researching the best time to Neuter Roo. I have done a lot of reading but there seems to be lots of conflicting information as well as conflicting opinions on the subject. Since our goal is to have the healthiest Basenji possible, I am looking for information on the subject from the most reliable sources.
We own the book " Basenjis" A Complete Pet Owner's Manual, and it suggests we wait until Roo is 10 months to a year old before we Neuter. The author's reasoning behind this is the the claim, that during that time, "Basenji's as they have reached full sexual maturity. They no longer need the hormones for growth and development and altering them at this age prevents any of the problems of a sexually mature adult."
I know many vets will neuter at 5 months of age, and some even sooner. I know shelter and rescue dogs get neutered at a young age so has their growth been affected?
When do the growth plates really close?
I ask this because I have read enough to know that it is not safe for the dog to be involved in agility until they are over a year old. If I remember correctly, the AKC does not allow a dog to compete in agility until they are 15 months of age.
Here is a link with some interesting facts and opinions in regard to this subject:
http://www.caninesports.com/SpayNeuter.html
If anyone has any links to current information regarding my questions, I would appreciate you sharing them with me.
Thanks in advance,
Jason