Spay and Neutering at Strohbehn Veterinary Clinic
We have all heard our fair share of public service announcements about neutering or spaying your pets, but you may wonder why it is thought of as such an important procedure. Not only does this procedure help reduce the tragedies which occur when overpopulation happens in the animal community, but these procedures can also play a vital part in maintaining your pets long term health, which is why it should be part of every cat and dog owners animal care plan. At Strohbehn Veterinary Clinic, we would be more than happy to go over your spay and neutering options for your pet.
Understanding Spay and Neuter Surgery
A sexual sterilization surgery is the removal of either the female or male sex organs. In spay surgery, known as a ovariohysterectomy, we make an incision in the abdomen and completely remove both the ovaries and the uterus. During the neuter surgery, or castration, a small incision is made in the scrotum and the testes are removed.
Both surgeries are usually performed under general anesthetic. Depending on whether sterilizing a dog or cat, and if your pet is currently in heat, spay surgery will take anywhere from 20 to 60 minutes. Neuter surgery is a much simpler, shorter procedure that can take only a few minutes to complete. These are outpatient surgeries, so your pets can be taken home the same day once they have fully awoken from the anesthesia. At Strohbehn Veterinary Clinic, your veterinarian may advise using a neck collar to prevent licking or biting of the wound during recovery while advising you any postoperative care you may need to give at home.
A Simple Surgery With Big Benefits
Obviously the major benefit of this surgery is the prevention of unwanted pregnancy. We all love puppies and kittens, but you may not be able to handle a houseful of animals. Often, pet owners facing this scenario have no option but to hand over the unwanted animals to shelters, most of which must then destroy them due to lack of space and resources. Sterilization is thus a great service to the animal community.
These surgeries also protect your pet’s health in a number of ways. Spay surgery completely eliminates any chance of uterine or ovarian cancer, while also greatly reducing the risk of breast cancer. Similarly, neuter surgery eliminates the risk of testicular cancer, and also reduces the chances of prostate disease and perianal cancer. Removal of the source of sex hormones removes heat-related behavioural issues that can often lead to serious problems, such as roaming and fights.
We are proud members of the AVMA, and the Phi Zeta honorary fraternity of veterinarians.
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