Ask The Doc: Retained Testicle

back to topic list

I HAVE A (WHITE) LAB PUPPY. HE IS 6 MONTHS OLD TODAY. THE PROBLEM IS THAT ONE OF HIS TESTICLES DID NOT DROP AND STILL HAS NOT. I HAVE HEARD( FROM OTHER VETS) THAT I SHOULD HAVE BOTH TESTICLES REMOVED. OR, IF I LEFT THEM IN , HE WOULD HAVE A 10% CHANCE OF ONE OF THEM TURNING TO CANCER WHEN HE IS 9 OR 10 YEARS OLD. I AM HAVING HIM TRAINED  FOR HUNTING AND I DON'T KNOW IF THIS OPERATION WOULD EFFECT HIS DESIRE OR SPEED? WHAT IS YOUR OPINION ON THIS?

Dr. DeMichael: I am in complete agreement with the veterinarian(s) that advised you to have both testicles removed. First of all, if he is operated, both testicles must be removed.  Do not operate and remove only the one that has descended. Secondly, if left in the abdominal cavity, there is an increased risk of cancer developing at a later age. Finally, having him neutered should have no effect on his desire to retrieve or his speed as you had referred to. I am in 100% agreement with the veterinary advice you had received.