Spaying & Neutering in Harlingen
Spaying and neutering are a key part of responsible pet ownership. These procedures help control the animal population, prevent infection, assist with behavior management, and improve your pet's overall health. Spaying and neutering can prevent unwanted litters and significantly reduce the risk of a number of serious health issues in your pet, including cancer.
At our Harlingen-based clinic, we pride ourselves on providing safe, compassionate spaying and neutering procedures for our patients. If you’re ready to have your pet spayed or neutered, contact our office today to schedule an appointment.
Why Choose Altas Palmas Animal Clinic for Your Pet’s Spay/Neuter
At Altas Palmas Animal Clinic, our professionally-trained staff is highly experienced at performing spaying and neutering surgeries. We understand that this can be a sensitive time for both you and your pet, and we are committed to providing the highest-quality care before, during, and after the procedure.
Our team utilizes advanced surgical techniques and advanced anesthesia monitoring, as well as strict safety protocols and personalized post-op care to ensure your pet remains safe during the spaying or neutering procedure.
We realize that pet care, and chiropractic care especially, is not a one-size-fits-all solution. Our vets practice a personalized approach to ensure each pet receives the best possible care. Each animal’s unique anatomy, condition, and health history plays a key role in what types of treatment our team recommends and performs.
The Importance of Spaying & Neutering
Spaying and neutering provide a wide range of benefits for both the individual pet and the animal population at large. These include:
Lowering the risks of mammary tumors, pyometra, testicular cancer, and prostate issues.
Improving behavior in many pets, including decreased roaming and marking.
Lowering the aggressiveness levels in many pets.
Reducing the animal’s instinct to breed, which can be frustrating to many pet owners.
Helping to curb the overpopulation of cats and dogs.
Reducing the number of homeless animals or animals that are euthanized.
Spay/Neuter Services We Offer in Harlingen
When looking to have your pet spayed or neutered, there are several types of sterilization procedures available depending on the age, breed, and health of your pet. We offer a variety of spaying and neutering services at our Harlingen-based location, including:
Traditional spay/neuter surgery under general anesthesia.
Pediatric spay/neuter for younger kittens or puppies (when appropriate).
Laparoscopic spaying (if offered) for a less invasive approach.
Pain management and medication protocols to ensure comfort.
Spaying for Female Pets
The animal is put under anesthesia to ensure a pain-free experience.
The abdomen is shaved and cleaned with a surgical antiseptic to maintain a sterile environment.
A midline incision is made on the abdomen, typically below the umbilicus, to access the reproductive organs.
The surgeon identifies and removes both ovaries and the uterus. This involves ligating (tying off) blood vessels and connective tissues to prevent bleeding.
The abdominal incision is closed in multiple layers using sutures that may dissolve over time. The skin may be closed with stitches, staples, or surgical glue.
Neutering for Male Pets
Similar to spaying, the pet is anesthetized to ensure comfort during the procedure.
The area around the scrotum is shaved and cleaned with an antiseptic solution.
In dogs, a single incision is made just in front of the scrotum. In cats, two small incisions are made, one over each testicle.
Each testicle is exteriorized through the incision. The spermatic cord and associated blood vessels are ligated to prevent bleeding, and the testicles are removed.
In dogs, the area is closed with sutures that may be absorbable. In cats, it is left open to heal naturally.
Pre- and Post-Operative Care
Before surgery, your pet will need to first undergo a full physical examination from a veterinarian to address their full health profile and answer any questions you may have. Your pet will also need to undergo an evaluation to ensure they are safe to be put under anesthesia, which may require bloodwork.
Once the procedure is complete, a veterinarian will explain the post-operative care needed for each animal. While this will vary depending on each pet, it will typically involve a period of restricted activity. The vet will also give pain medication while in hospital or send pain medication to be administered at home to keep your pet comfortable as they recover. Most pain meds at spay and neuter is a single shot given before discharge that doesn't need to be given at home (but not always).
Follow-up appointments are also essential, as the veterinarian can check the incision site and ensure that the area is healing properly and that there have not been any complications.
Payment Options for Spaying & Neutering at Altas Palmas Animal Clinic
At Altas Palmas Animal Clinic, we offer flexible financing and insurance options for Spaying & Neutering. Sign up today with any of our payment plan partners or contact us for specific questions about insurance coverage. Read more about our financing options here.
Frequently Asked Questions About Spay/Neuter
The species and breed of your pet will be the most important factor in determining when they should be spayed or neutered. Most vets recommend having the animals spayed or neutered before they reach sexual maturity.
Spaying and neutering are generally safe for all pets. However, with any surgery, there is some risk involved — particularly when it comes to anesthesia complications. There is also a small risk of infection at the surgical site and, in rare cases, spaying can lead to urinary incontinence for female pets.
While spaying and neutering doesn’t significantly change a pet’s personality, it may make them less aggressive without their mating instincts. Spaying and neutering may make pets calmer and more content, which could make them seem less energetic.
Book an Appointment at Altas Palmas Animal Clinic
New pets are always welcome at Altas Palmas Animal Clinic. Our friendly veterinary staff looks forward to providing our neighbors in Citrus Heights and surrounding communities with the veterinary care they need.
