Spay/Neuter

Spaying (ovariohysterectomy for females) and neutering (orchiectomy for males) are common surgical procedures performed by veterinarians to sterilize pets. In females, spaying involves removing the ovaries and uterus, while in males, neutering involves removing the testicles. These procedures are typically done under general anesthesia and are considered routine. Beyond preventing unwanted pregnancies and contributing to pet overpopulation control, spaying and neutering offer numerous health advantages. For females, spaying eliminates the risk of uterine infections (pyometra) and greatly reduces the risk of mammary (breast) cancer, especially if done before the first heat cycle. For males, neutering eliminates the risk of testicular cancer and significantly reduces the risk of certain prostate problems. Behaviorally, neutering can reduce roaming, aggression, and urine marking in males, while spaying eliminates heat cycles and associated behaviors like vocalization and restlessness in females. These procedures are a cornerstone of responsible pet ownership and preventive health.