Well, Candy. I think you are more educated in this than me. But I would definately spay her. Keegan has her appt for the end of Feb. The health problems related to intact females are just too numerous. Goldens have such a high tumor and cancer and health problem, I don't want to add to her chances. My parents neighbor have an 8yo(i think) golden who has had over 40 puppies and they just got a puppy 4 weeks older than Keegan and she is going to be bred also.. I don't agree with this,which is exactly why Keegan isn't going to have any. I don't want to deal with it, don't have the room, and myself am not educated enough in the area.
And since Keegan doesn't come from the Champion bloodlines like Dixie and Dusty, and I have no desire to show her or anything, there really is no reason to breed her,I wouldn't be doing anything for the Golden breed itself.
There is a really good article in the latest Dog Fancy about why breeders are needed. To make sure the best traits of the breed are passed on, which you did when you bred her the first time.
Since she is your heart dog, and you want her around for a good long time, definately spay her.
Let us know your decision so we can keep her in our prayers!