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Is it safe to vaccinate or spay an elderly 21-year-old chihuahua?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Chihuahua (Smooth Coat) | Female | unspayed | 20 years and 5 months old | 13 lbs

We are a rescue that has recently acquired a 21 year old chihuahua female-- my question is do you recommend vaccinating her and what about spaying her at this late age? We do not adopt out unaltered dogs and that is a concern with her Thanks! Christi

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on September 23rd, 2019

Hi Christi! I'd have Coco evaluated by a vet and have blood work done as well as a urinalysis. This will determine if she is safe to have surgery to have her spayed. I do recommend vaccinating her.

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