What is done during surgical altering?

Altering your pet involves the surgical removal of the reproductive organs. In females the ovaries, fallopian tubes and uterus are removed. This procedure is commonly called “spaying”. In males, the testicles are removed. This procedure is commonly called “neutering”. We recommend doing both surgeries around 6 month of age.

Both surgeries do require a general anesthesia, but most pets are able to go home the same day. Prior to the surgery we do a full physical exam, blood work and an EKG is performed to minimize anesthetic risks and ensure that your pet is healthy. An IV catheter is placed and IV fluids are administered to keep your pet hydrated. Your pet will be consistantly monitored throughout the surgery by one of the surgical nurses and a multi-parameter surgical monitor. This monitor records oxygen saturation, temperature, heart rate, respiration, blood pressure and carbon dioxide levels throughout the entire procedure.

Why do we recommend spaying and neutering?

Spaying and neutering have long term health benefits and help control pet overpopulation by preventing unwanted litters.

In females, spaying prior to the first heat cycle drastically reduces the chances of developing malignant breast tumors and eliminates the risk of uterine infection.

In males, neutering decreases problem behaviors such as urine marking, the urge to roam and inappropriate aggression. It also reduces the risk of prostate disease and eliminates the risk of testicular cancer.

Does the surgery affect my pet’s metabolism or disposition?

Most pets actually tend to be better behaved following the surgery. It will not cause your pet to feel differently about you. The surgery will not cause your pet to get fat. The reason many pets seem to gain weight after the surgery is because the age at which we commonly perform the surgery coincides with the dog entering maturity. The body’s metabolism will naturally slow down at this time. To prevent weight gain it is important to provide adequate exercise and switch from a puppy/kitten food to an adult food which is lower in calories.

 

 

What can you expect after you pick your pet up from the hospital?

On the day of the procedure your pet will seem groggy and most likely go home and sleep. This is normal and expected after any procedure that requires general anesthesia. You will be sent home with pain medication that you will need to administer for approximately 3-5 days. You will not need to clean the incision, but you do need to look at it daily and check for swelling, oozing or any other signs of infection. A recheck appointment is scheduled 10-12 days from the day of the surgery to remove the sutures.