Spay and Neuter Procedures

As a pet owner, you’ll have to make difficult decisions concerning the health and welfare of your pet. Spaying or neutering your dog or cat is one of these decisions. If you have questions about this procedure, contact Dr. Sheila RiceWatkins or Dr. Marianne Martin at Crow Hill Veterinary Hospital in Bailey. We have ample experience with spay and neuter surgeries and can provide you with the information you need to make a knowledgeable decision on whether or not to spay or neuter your pet.

Understanding Spay/Neuter Surgeries

Spaying a female canine or feline entails removing her reproductive organs so she cannot have babies and won't go into heat. In like manner, neutering a male pet involves the surgical removal of his testes, eliminating his ability to reproduce.  More recently, consideration has been given to vasectomy, ovariectomy, and hysterectomy procedures,  sparing organs that produce hormones, while still preventing unwanted pregnancy.

Reasons to Spay or Neuter a Pet

In most cities, pet populations have been growing exponentially. As a result, shelters are filled with unwanted litters of kittens and puppies along with strays that are picked up off the street. Spaying or neutering your pet helps reduce the pet population in shelters. Many unwanted pets are put down if not adopted within a certain amount of time.  Spaying and neutering can also eliminate passing down unwanted genetic diseases and disorders.

There are also health benefits to spaying or neutering a pet, some of which could extend your pet's lifespan. Spaying your female dog can help prevent mammary cancer, uterine infections, and other medical conditions. Neutering your male dog can protect him from testicular cancer, which can be deadly. Neutering can also reduce aggressive behavior in male dogs, making your pet more agreeable to live with. Spay/neuter procedures also reduce your pet’s desire to look for a mate, making him or her less likely to stray.