Mon–Fri: 7:30AM–7PM
Sat: 8AM – 5PM
Sun: Closed

Spay And Neuter

Spay & Neuter Recommendations

At Wilderness Animal Hospital, we recommend spaying and neutering at the following ages:

Female dogs and cats: around 6 months
Male cats: around 6 months
Male dogs: typically 9–12 months, depending on breed

In some cases, spaying or neutering may be recommended earlier if medically or behaviorally appropriate. When your pet receives their initial vaccinations with us, we’ll send a postcard reminder when it’s time to schedule their procedure.

What Are Spaying and Neutering?

Spaying is the surgical removal of the ovaries and uterus in female pets (ovariohysterectomy). Neutering, also called castration, is the removal of the testicles in male pets.

These procedures offer long-term benefits, including improved health, behavioral benefits, and helping reduce pet overpopulation.

Our Commitment to Safety & Comfort

Spay and neuter surgeries at Wilderness Animal Hospital are performed with a strong focus on individualized care, safety, and comfort. Each pet receives a customized anesthetic plan, attentive monitoring, proactive pain management, and hands-on recovery support from our trained veterinary team.

When comparing clinics, it’s important to compare more than just price. Lower-cost options may exclude critical safety steps or monitoring that help protect your pet during anesthesia and recovery.

What to Expect on Spay & Neuter Surgery Day

On the day of your pet’s spay or neuter procedure, our team will guide you through each step and answer any remaining questions. Your pet is admitted into a calm, controlled environment designed to reduce stress and support a smooth surgical experience.

After surgery, your pet is closely monitored during recovery until they are awake, stable, and comfortable. Pain management is addressed proactively to support a safe and gentle recovery.

We’ve created a short video to walk you through what to expect on your pet’s surgery day. You can also review the steps below for added clarity.

Spay & Neuter Surgery Day: What to Expect

Helping You Feel Confident and Prepared

Morning Check-In

Complete your paperwork online or at check-in. Pick up a pheromone-infused bandana to help your pet stay calm.

Technician Intake

A veterinary technician reviews your pet’s history, explains the plan for the day, and answers your questions.

Cozy Kennel

Your pet relaxes in a clean, comfortable kennel designed to reduce stress.

Vital Signs

We check your pet’s heart rate, temperature, and weight before surgery.

Physical Exam

The veterinarian performs a full head-to-tail exam to confirm your pet is ready for anesthesia.

Bloodwork

Pre-surgical bloodwork checks organ function and overall health for anesthesia safety.

Pre-Anesthesia Medications

Medications are given to reduce anxiety, manage pain, and ensure a smooth transition into anesthesia.

IV Catheter

An IV catheter allows safe delivery of fluids and medications during surgery.

Endotracheal Tube

An ET tube protects the airway and delivers oxygen while your pet is under anesthesia.

Monitoring

Your pet is continuously monitored for heart rate, breathing, blood pressure, oxygen levels, and temperature.

Preparing for Surgery

The surgical area is shaved and disinfected to maintain a sterile environment.

Surgical Procedure

The veterinarian performs the surgery while a technician closely monitors vital signs.

Recovery

After surgery, your pet is kept warm, comfortable, and closely monitored as they wake up.

Doctor Update

A veterinarian will call you with an update and discuss pickup timing.

Discharge Appointment

A technician reviews home care instructions and medications before you head home together.