I need my pet to be either spayed or castrated. How do I know which procedure is appropriate for my companion?
If your pet is a female, she will undergo a spay procedure. If your pet is male, he will be neutered. Both procedures are irreversible, and your pet will not be able to have offspring.
I want to spay/neuter my pet, but it’s too expensive for me at this time. What can I do?
February is our spay and neuter month! In February, we offer a $40.00 discount on all spay/neuter procedures. This discount is limited to 2 pets per household. We also work with Care Credit. Please visit their website to apply. Please call our office at 708.361.6002 to schedule your appointment because they book up fast.
What are the benefits of spaying or castrating my animal?
In females, you will be reducing your pet’s risk of breast and reproductive cancer. Uterine infection will also be eliminated in spayed animals. In males, you will be preventing the risk of testicular cancer. This means, you will have happier, healthier years with your friend.
You will not be contributing to the pet population problem. Many animals that can not find homes end up in shelters or running the streets. If an animal ends up in a shelter, he or she could be euthanized. If the animal becomes a stray, he or she will continue to breed, and add more strays to the world.
Will my male dog be less “manly” or will her personality be changed by being spayed?
Humans are great at expressing their feelings through their animal companion and confusing our definitions of sexuality with animal hormones and instincts. Please be assured that your pet will not have any negative emotional reactions or have an identity crisis because they are altered.
A castrated male will be better behaved. He will not try to escape the house to find a mate, he will not mark territory, and some aggression problems may be avoided if he is castrated on or after 6 months of age.
Shouldn’t I let my pet have a heat cycle first?
Female felines can go into heat four to five days every three weeks during their breeding season. Your female cat may also urinate more often, and may decide to urinate out of her litter box.
Female dogs can go into heat every 6 months, and the cycle can last for 21 days.
If you have further questions regarding some “myths” about spay or castrating, please call our office or visit the ASPCA or Placer SPCA websites.