Elective Surgery
The most common elective surgeries for our pets include the ovariohysterectomy of female pets, neuter of male pets, and the declawing of cats.
- Ovariohysterectomy - this procedure is most commonly known as a spay and involves the surgical removal of the female dog or cat's ovaries and uterus. It is considered a major surgery as it requires surgical entry into the abdomen.
- Neuter - This procedure involves the surgical removal of a male dog or cat's testicles. This is considered a more minor surgery than a spay because it is less invasive.
- Declaw- This procedure involves the surgical removal of the claws of cats (most commonly the front claws). The declaw process involves the amputation of the claw and attached distal phalanx(or end bone) of the cat's toes.
There are many benefits to spaying or neutering your pet.
- Spaying female dogs and cats eliminates the possibility of uterine or ovarian cancer and infection. It also significantly reduces the incidence of mammary (breast) cancer, particulalryif it is done before the pet's first heat cycle.
- Neutering male dogs and cats eliminates testicular cancer and decreases the incidence of prostrate cancer.
- Spaying a female dog or cat eliminates its heat cycle.
- Spayed and neutered pets are less likely to run away, roam the neighborhood or get into fights.
- Spayed and neutered pets are less likely to bite and have behavioral problems.
- Neutered cats are less likely to spray their urine and mark territtory.
- Spaying and neutering helps dogs and cats live longer healthier lives.