Spay & Neuter

These surgical procedures, performed by our veterinarians, render the animal incapable of reproducing. Spaying is a general term used to describe the ovariohysterectomy of a female animal. Neutering is a general term used to describe the castration of a male animal. Pet owners should work with their veterinarians to determine the appropriate sterilization ages for individual cats and dogs. Short-term and long-term health risks for each animal should always be assessed. 

Through neutering, you can help your dog or cat live a happier, healthier, longer life. Spaying eliminates the constant crying and nervous pacing of a female cat in heat. Spaying a female dog also eliminates the messiness associated with the heat cycle. Neutering of male dogs and cats can prevent certain undesirable sexual behaviors, such as urine marking, humping, male aggression, and the urge to roam. Spaying females prior to their first heat cycle nearly eliminate the risk of breast cancer and totally prevents uterine infections and uterine cancer. Neutering males prevent testicular cancer and enlargement of the prostate gland and greatly reduces their risk for perianal tumors.

Four Great Reasons to Spay or Neuter Your Pet Now:

  • According to the Humane Society of the United States, between 6- 8 million pets enter U.S. animal shelters every year. Only about half are adopted, meaning the rest—mostly healthy, adoptable dogs and cats—are euthanized.
  • Your pet will likely be healthier. Altered pets have less urge to roam, and spaying/neutering reduces the risk of certain types of cancer in both dogs and cats.
  • A better-behaved pet is often the result of spay/neuter surgery: male dogs are less prone to lifting a leg where they shouldn’t, and cats are less likely to spray. Howling and fighting are usually curbed as well.
  • Most counties offer less expensive licensing for spayed and neutered pets.

To learn more about spaying and neutering, or to schedule an appointment, contact us at (510) 797-2323.