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 SPAYING

WHY SHOULD I HAVE MY PET SPAYED?

  • It eliminates the heat cycle. (Dogs are in heat for about 21 days twice a year. Cats are less predictable, but can be in heat for 3 – 15 days several times a year.) It stops the bloody discharge and attraction of unwelcome males which can be drawn from blocks away even when she is kept indoors.
  • It prevents unwanted pregnancies. Each year in the United States, over 10 million pets are destroyed because no one adopts them.
  • It prevents serious disease of the uterus and if done before the first heat cycle, almost eliminates breast cancer.
  • Spaying can help your pet have a happier, healthier and longer life and will reduce the number of dogs and cats condemned to live without homes and without love.

    WHEN SHOULD IT BE DONE?
    The best time is at 5 – 6 months of age. The risk of breast cancer can be almost totally eliminated by spaying before she comes in heat.
    There are no advantages to waiting.

    WHAT IS DONE DURING THE OPERATION?
    The entire uterus and ovaries are removed. Although the uterus is rather large, the incision is quite small.

    IS THE OPERATION SAFE?
    It is extremely safe. Today’s anesthetics are extremely safe and we use the latest in electronic equipment to monitor your pet’s ECG and respiration. This means that the risks of surgery are far less than the risks of uterine infection or cancer.
    Laboratory and ECG screening for potential problems with anesthesia, blood clotting, and tissue healing can reduce risks even further. Our laboratory is equipped to run a complete series of blood chemistries within a matter of minutes and we routinely perform a group of presurgery tests on all pets over 2 years of age. To increase your comfort level, these tests are available as an option for pets less than 2 years.
    Dogs must have a negative heartworm status and cats must have a current negative Leukemia Virus test prior to surgery.

    WILL MY PET BE IN PAIN AFTERWARDS?
    As pet owners ourselves, we place a high priority on pain control. All surgery patients begin receiving pain medication before they even wake up from anesthesia. You will give oral medication at home.

    Another effective means of pain control is the use of a CO2 laser which cuts with a beam of light instead of a scalpel. This seals nerve endings, seals vessels and seals lymphatic vessels. The result is less pain, less bleeding, less swelling and faster recovery.

    HOW LONG WILL SHE BE IN THE HOSPITAL?
    She can be admitted to the hospital the morning of surgery and go home later the same day.

    WON’T SHE GET FAT AND LAZY?
    No. Neutered animals require fewer calories, but obesity is caused by overfeeding and lack of exercise. Cut down on the meals and make time for walks and play.

    WHAT WILL I NEED TO DO AFTER SURGERY?
    1. Only small amounts of food and water the evening of surgery-too much will cause vomiting.
    2. Give medications as directed.
    3. Limit exercise. No running or jumping for at least 3 days.
    4. Check the incision daily. Slight swelling is normal.
    5. No suture removal is necessary.
    6. CALL IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS.

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