Spaying and Neutering

Overview

Spaying or neutering your pets is an essential step to ensuring their health and promoting a longer, happier life. At Animal Republic Veterinary Hospital and ER, we strongly recommend these procedures for all dogs and cats to prevent unwanted litters and help manage pet overpopulation.

Benefits of Spaying and Neutering Your Pets

Health Benefits

• Reduced Risk of Cancers: Spaying eliminates the risk of ovarian and uterine cancers in female pets and significantly reduces the risk of mammary tumors. Neutering reduces the risk of testicular cancer and prostate issues in male pets.
• Prevention of Infections: Spaying prevents life-threatening uterine infections (pyometra) in female pets.

Behavioral Benefits

• Reduced Aggression: Neutering can decrease aggressive behavior in male dogs and cats, and reduces the urge to roam, thereby reducing the risk of injury from fights or accidents.
• Decreased Spraying and Marking: Neutering helps reduce territorial urine marking in both cats and dogs.
• Calmer Demeanor: Spayed and neutered pets often exhibit a calmer and more focused demeanor, making them easier to train and more affectionate companions.

Population Control

• Preventing Overpopulation: Spaying and neutering help control the pet population, reducing the number of unwanted animals in shelters and on the streets.

The Spaying and Neutering Process

Consultation and Pre-Surgical Exam

Before the procedure, our veterinarians will conduct a thorough health check to ensure your pet is fit for surgery. We will also discuss any questions or concerns you may have and provide detailed pre-operative instructions.

Surgery

Spaying (ovariohysterectomy) and neutering (castration) are performed under general anesthesia to ensure your pet’s comfort and safety. Our highly skilled surgical team uses advanced techniques to minimize pain and promote quick recovery.

Post-Operative Care

After the procedure, we provide detailed post-operative care instructions to help your pet recover smoothly. Pain management and follow-up visits ensure your pet’s well-being during the recovery period.

When to Spay or Neuter Your Pet

The appropriate age for spaying or neutering varies depending on your pet’s breed, size, and health. Our veterinarians will guide you on the best timing for your dog or cat to maximize health benefits.

Elective Gastropexy: Prevention for Bloat in At-Risk Breeds

Certain dog breeds, such as Great Danes, German Shepherds, Standard Poodles, and Saint Bernards, are prone to a dangerous condition called bloat, where the stomach fills with gas and twists. To help prevent this, we offer a surgery called elective gastropexy. During this procedure, the stomach is attached to the abdominal wall, which helps prevent it from twisting. This surgery can be performed at the same time as spaying or neutering. Talk to our veterinarians to see if this procedure is right for your pet.

Schedule a Consultation

If you have any questions about spaying or neutering your pet or wish to schedule a consultation, please contact our office. Animal Republic Veterinary Hospital and ER is committed to providing the best care for your pets and helping you make informed decisions for their health and well-being.