If you are a pet owner, and you are not interested in breeding pets, the spay and neuter process will stop reproduction from occurring altogether. Contact North Texas Veterinary Hospital in Weatherford to make an appointment with our veterinarian if you wish to have this surgical procedure conducted at our animal hospital. We provide this service for dogs, cats, and other small animals. Here is some information about spaying and neutering to read over so you understand why it is important, how to prepare your pet for the procedure, and how to care for it after the surgery is completed.
Why the Spay and Neuter Process Is Important for Pets
Spaying is the process of stopping reproduction in female animals while neutering is the term used for males. Spaying or neutering is a surgical procedure performed by our veterinarian in a clinical atmosphere. If you have this procedure conducted, your pet will no longer be able to be involved in reproducing. This is important so unwanted small animals are not born. Pets that are spayed or neutered will also have less likelihood of suffering from reproductive cancers. Poor behavioral actions such as urinating to mark territory, yowling to get the attention of a possible mate, or aggressiveness, may stop after a pet is spayed or neutered.
How to Prepare Your Pet for the Procedure
Before you can have your pet spayed or neutered, it needs to be evaluated by our veterinarian to ensure it is healthy enough for surgery. You will need to make an appointment for a well-visit so your pet can be analyzed. If your pet is old enough and deemed medically able, our veterinarian will schedule a date for the surgery. You will need to stop your pet from eating or drinking for several hours before their surgery. This is because we use general anesthesia for the procedure. If your pet has stomach contents and has a reaction to the anesthesia, it could aspirate. Our vet will give you guidelines to follow regarding pre-surgical preparations.
How to Care for Your Pet After the Procedure
Your pet will need plenty of rest after it is spayed or neutered. Provide it with a quiet area away from activity in your home so it can relax without worry. Make sure to check on the incision site often. If bleeding or discharge is noticed, contact our veterinarian for an assessment. Your pet will regain strength and its appetite after a day or two.
Contact North Texas Veterinary Hospital in Weatherford to make an appointment for a spay or neuter surgery. Call us today at (817) 458-3355 for more information about our services.