Spay & Neuter Services in Bethel Park
Every year, thousands of stray and unwanted animals are euthanized in shelters across the United States. Many of these deaths are the avoidable result of pets not being spayed and neutered. Even if you keep a close watch on your pet, accidents happen, and unexpected offspring means more animals that won’t be given the chance at full, happy lives.
Spaying and neutering can help end this cycle, and both procedures can have health benefits for pets.
Spaying Services
Spaying is a common surgical procedure performed on female animals. For most species, the process is called an ovariohysterectomy and involves removing the patient’s uterus, ovaries, and fallopian tubes, rendering the animal incapable of reproduction. Bethel Park Animal Clinic veterinarians typically recommend spaying your pet at 6-12 months. For dogs, ideally before their first heat.
Benefits of Spaying Your Pet
- Prevents unwanted pregnancies
- Eliminates the risk of ovarian and uterine tumors
- Removes the possibility of uterine infections
Post-Surgery Expectations
Spaying is a major surgery requiring 10-14 days of recovery time. Recovery may also include pain medication and lethargy is common for the first couple of days following the procedure. It’s extremely important that you monitor your pet to prevent her from licking or biting the incision to reduce the risk of infection.
Neutering Services
Neutering is performed on male animals. This process castrates the animal, removing their testicles and making them unable to impregnate females. Neutering is advised when your pet is 6 months old but can be performed on older animals as well.
Benefits of Neutering Your Pet
- Reduces roaming and spraying (territory marking)
- Reduces the risk of testicular and prostatic disease
Expectations After Surgery
Although less invasive than spaying, neutering is still a major medical procedure that requires some recovery time. Recovery may also include pain medication and lethargy is common for the first couple of days following the procedure. It’s extremely important that you monitor your pet to prevent him from licking or biting the incision to reduce the risk of infection.
Contact Us to Schedule an Appointment
To learn more about spaying and neutering, or to schedule an appointment, contact us at 412-595-7843.
