Why should I spay or neuter my pet?

There are numerous reasons to alter your pet and population control is one of the most important. Over 15 million animals are killed each year because they do not have homes. There are many other reasons to spay or neuter your pet:

1. The neutered male cat has a decreased urine odor, less of a tendency to fight and roam, and a significantly less likelihood of spraying urine in the house to mark his territory.
2. The neutered male dog also has less of a tendency to roam, mark territory and is much less aggressive toward other dogs. If the male is neutered before he begins lifting his leg (instead of squatting), he will be less likely to have "marking" behavior on bushes, tires, etc..
3. Neutered males also have fewer prostate problems, tumors around the anus, and decreased urine odor.
4. The spayed female cat and dog do not have reproductive tract disease problems such as uterine infections and cancer, do not experience periods of "heat" and have significantly fewer cases of mammary cancer, especially if spayed before their first heat.

What is the procedure?

An ovariohysterectomy (spay) is a surgical procedure in which the uterine body, uterine horns and ovaries are surgically removed. The female dog or cat will be unable to reproduce and will no longer experience "heat cycles."

An orchiectomy (neuter) is a surgical procedure in which the testicles are removed surgically, making the male unable to impregnate a female.

These surgical procedures are done under a general anesthetic. The male dog or cat can go home the same day as the procedure and the female dog or cat will go home the next day (cats that are also declawed will stay an additional day).

At what age should the procedure be performed?

We recommend spaying or neutering your pet at approximately 6 months of age. If females are altered prior to their first heat, the risk of future mammary gland (breast) cancer is reduced dramatically. Recent studies have shown that spaying or neutering prior to full sexual maturity does not cause any significant changes in the development, health, behavior, or longevity of your pet. There is no truth to the myth that a female must go through a heat cycle or have a litter in order to be a better companion.

Will spaying or neutering my pet cause it to become fat and lazy?

No. Weight gain is due to being fed more calories than the animal uses. Ask our veterinarians or staff to discuss the quantity and type of food to feed your pet