Veterinary Services
Pet Spay and Neuter
Spays and neuters are preventive surgeries that keep dogs and cats from breeding and increasing the stray animal population.
Pet Spay And Neuter In Springfield, MO
Spaying and neutering can prevent certain cancers that could become a serious risk later. Electing for pet spay and neuter for dogs and cats in Springfield, MO is a great proactive measure that will raise their chances of a healthy and long life, and reduce the risk of unruly behaviors caused by hormones. If your cat or dog needs to be spayed or neutered, Spring Valley Veterinary Hospital can provide surgery under the safest and most comfortable conditions to suit their needs.
Why Spaying/Neutering is Beneficial to Your Dog or Cat’s Health in Springfield
Despite their differences, male and female dogs and cats are all at a certain degree of risk for diseases associated with their reproductive organs. However, spaying or neutering them at the proper time can greatly reduce or even eliminate these risks, which include:
- Uterine, ovarian, cervical, and mammary cancer (females)
- Prostate and testicular cancer (males)
- Pyometra (a serious uterine infection that affects females)
- Pregnancy
Certain behaviors can also be decreased:
- Roaming to find a mate, which can increase the risk of being attacked by another animal or struck by a moving vehicle (males and females)
- Aggressiveness (males)
- Urine marking/spraying and mounting other dogs/cats/objects (males)
- Loud vocalizations such as caterwauling (cats) and barking/howling (dogs)
Common Myths About Spay and Neuter Surgeries
There is some misinformation out there regarding the effects of spaying and neutering on animals:
- My pet will gain weight- This isn’t necessarily true. While pets may experience a slower metabolism after they have been spayed or neutered, this change can be easily managed. Keep up with your pet’s daily exercise and make sure their diet (and portions) are healthy and in line with what your veterinarian recommends. And avoid giving out table scraps!
- My pet will have a different personality-While spaying and neutering can change hormone-fueled behaviors seen in dogs and cats while they are intact, their personality will remain the same. A bouncy, bubbly dog will not suddenly become mellow after their surgery, and vice versa.
- Spaying/neutering is far too expensive-Factoring in long-term costs, spaying or neutering a pet is far less expensive than having to care for an unexpected litter (in addition to you pet), or paying for cancer treatment. In other words, spay and neuter procedures can help to prevent costly care for your pet later down the line.
If you have any questions or want to schedule a consultation visit, call our East or West location now.