To spay or not to spay. That is the question.

[Pliudev]

I have a ShihTzu just one year old this week. She is very dear to me. All advice is to have her spayed to prevent health problems in future. She had her pre op check today and is booked in for next Thursday. The trouble is I'm nervous. I was told she will need to convalesce for 11 days. No running, jumping or going upstairs. All this made me realise this is much more major surgery than I realised (my previous dogs were boys ).
Can anyone advise please?

The advice you have been given is right, but if you still have concerns, discuss it with your vet.

It is the responsible thing to do

Spay. She'll be happier and healthier. She also won't have random stray dogs harassing her when she's in heat.

There is always a risk with surgery, albeit very small
The risks from cancer and pyometra over a lifetime are however,very significant and can be completely removed by spaying
Its in your dogs best interests to do it now

Thanks for your replies. Just feeling a wimp.

Yep spaying is nothing compared to pyrometra.

I feel you. My bitch is currently in season and will be being booked in to be spayed in three months time.
Does your vet, or another one local, offer laparoscopic spays? The recovery time is reduced to two or three days. Unfortunately it's a lot more expensive.