Spay and Neuter
Spay and Neuter
There are many important responsibilities that come with being a pet owner. Among these is to properly manage your pet’s reproductive health, and to assure that they are a responsible “pet neighbor,” One way many pet owners accomplish this is to have their pet undergo spay or neuter surgery. At The Animal Hospital at Lake Brandt spay and neuter surgery are among the most common procedures we take on, but it doesn’t mean that you don’t have some concerns when it is your pet’s turn.
What is Spay & Neuter?
A spay or neuter surgery is a sterilization surgery for your pet. For females, it is called spay and involves the removal of the ovaries and uterus, also known as an ovariohysterectomy. For males, it means removing the testicles and is also referred to as castration. Both surgeries make pregnancy or impregnating impossible.
A Few Common Concerns
You have heard that spaying and neutering your pet is responsible, and generally a good idea, and for the most part, it is. But some pet owners have some concerns.
The biggest one perhaps is that it is a surgical procedure, which means your pet will need to go under general anesthesia and receive an incision. The surgery is commonly performed around 6 months of age, just before sexual maturity, and depending on the pet it may be performed at a younger age.
No matter what age your pet is when they have their surgery, our animal hospital does a careful evaluation to determine their ability to handle the necessary anesthesia. Before performing the surgery, we will check your pet’s general health to make sure they are strong. Our evaluation continues before, during, and after the surgery to make sure their vital functions continue to function properly.
Wound Care
Caring for the incision site is something pet owners need to work closely with their veterinarian about to assure proper healing. Our vet will suggest that pet’s curb their activity for a short time, and that they are blocked from having access to their own wound. Often this is done by wearing a special cone collar during the immediate aftermath.
Quality of Life Concerns and Benefits
Some pet owners are concerned their pet will “miss something” after they are spayed or neutered, but this is far from the case. For most, intentional breeding isn’t something they look to do. Dogs and cats don’t long to become parents the way some humans do. Spayed and neutered dogs and cats have decreased risk of some cancers and other health problems; they also become generally calmer, which reduces their risk of running off or getting involved in an accident.
Schedule an Appointment Today!
If you have a pet that is not spayed or neutered, it may be time to talk to your Summerfield veterinarian about the procedure.
To learn more or to book an appointment, contact us by calling (336) 643-2229 today.
Why Choose Us?
We Are AAHA Accredited
We Are Dedicated to Provide the Finest Veterinary Care
We Provide Full Service in One Location
Long Term Supporters & Providers of the Local Rescue, Red Dog Farm
Hours & Location
- Hours
Monday – Friday: 7:00 am-6:00 pm
Saturday: 7:30 am-12:00 pm
Sunday: Closed
- Location
1012 NC Hwy 150 W
Summerfield, NC 27358
- Phone
(336) 643-2229
Serving Your Pet's Every Need at One Convenient Location
Providing your pet with any service they may need, big or small, since 2006. We are here for you.