Answers about Spaying and Neutering from Our Winston Salem Veterinary Hospital

Of the many forms of pet surgery available here at Forsyth Veterinary Hospital, spaying and neutering are two of the most commonly requested and frequently performed. But as well understood as sexual sterilization surgery may be to the veterinary community, pet owners may be understandably puzzled about both the procedures themselves and the many benefits to be gained from them. Here are answers to some of the questions on the subject that our Winston Salem Veterinary Hospital frequently receives.

• What is neutering? Neutering, or orchiectomy, is removal of the testes, or male sex organs. It may also be referred to as castration. An incision is made in the scrotum, and the testicles are extracted.
• What is spaying? Spaying, or ovariohysterectomy, is removal of the female reproductive organs. This generally includes extraction of the ovaries, uterus and fallopian tubes from an incision in the abdomen.
• How does sterilization improve my pet's health? Cancers of the reproductive organs are not uncommon in the animal world. One your pet's reproductive organs have been removed, that threat is gone as well, lowering your pet's lifetime cancer risk.
• Does sterilization have behavioral benefits? Sterilization prevents the hormonal roller coaster that creates sexual urges and related behavioral changes. A sterilized pet will not become aggressive due to these changes, for example, or roam the streets at night seeking a mate (and possibly finding danger instead).
• How does spaying and neutering benefit the animal community? No matter how people love puppies and kittens, they may be unable to care for litter after litter of animals. Sterilization reduces the number of unwanted animals who end up being destroyed by overburdened shelters.
• When should my pet receive this pet surgery? Sterilization can happen any time, but to get all the health benefits your pet should have the surgery before reaching sexual maturity.
• How do we prepare my pet for surgery? Our Winston Salem veterinary hospital needs to conduct a wellness exam beforehand. This ensures that your pet is a good candidate for surgery and can tolerate the anesthesia safely. We will advise you as to whether you should withhold food on the morning of surgery.
• Do I have to hospitalize my pet for these kinds of pet surgery? Our Winston and Salem spay and neuter surgeries are usually same-day procedures. Complicating factors may call for an overnight stay.
• How do I take care of my pet following surgery? Your pet may wear a collar to prevent licking or biting the incision site. We will advise you on points such as administering painkillers or antibiotics, watching the incision for infection and bringing your pet back in for follow-up monitoring.

Your Source for Winston Salem Spay and Neuter Surgery

Forsyth Veterinary Hospital is your trusted source for Winston Salem spay and neuter surgery. Call (336) 765-1225 to schedule a preliminary wellness exam and learn more about this safe, effective type of pet surgery!