Ovariohysterectomy And Castration

As a new pet owner, one of the first choices you'll make is whether or not to spay or neuter your pet. At Hope Springs, we encourage our clients to schedule their pets to receive ovariohysterectomy (spay) and castration (neuter) procedures at approximately six months of age.

Our experienced and compassionate team recognizes the many health benefits associated with ovariohysterectomy and castration in pets, including reduced overpopulation and reduced risk for mammary and testicular cancer, as well as life-threatening uterine and prostate problems.

At Hope Springs we take a cautious and safety first approach to ovariohysterectomy and castration surgical procedures, utilizing minimally invasive techniques like laparoscopy and laser surgery whenever possible. These techniques not only reduce risk for complications during and after your pet's procedure, but also reduce bleeding, inflammation and pain for our patients.

Securing your pet's pain free, speedy and healthy recovery are our constant goals in performing surgical procedures. If you're considering ovariohysterectomy or castration for your pet, ask us how we can provide you with the resources and support you need to make the right choice for your family.

What to Expect from Your Pet's Ovariohysterectomy and Castration

Allow 10-15 minutes for patient check in.
Plan for your pet to stay with us for the day while we monitor them closely, ensuring a safe and comfortable recovery.
Prior to the procedure, your doctor will perform an exam to ensure you pet is in good health for their procedure.
A pre-medication will be administered to provide pain control and sedative effects.
An IV catheter will be placed in your pet's leg to allow for the administration of medication, and also to serve as a port in the event of an emergency.
Your pet will be clipped as indicated for the procedure.
Your pet will be intubated and placed under general anesthesia.
Once ready, your pet will be moved into the surgery suite and onto a warm surgical table where advanced monitoring equipment and a dedicated surgical technician can monitor the patient.
The veterinarian will perform the surgical procedure.
Following the procedure, the surgical technician will transfer your pet into recovery. The surgical technician will stay with your pet until they are fully awake (if requested, a picture of your pet can be emailed to the you once your pet is awake).
Post-operative pain medication will be administered following the procedure.
At the discharge appointment, a member of the technical team will review at home care instructions and any medications with the client.
Your pet will need to return 10-14 days following their procedure to check the surgical area, and have any sutures or staples removed.

Our veterinary team recommends the following additional options to support treatment and recovery

Pre-anesthetic Bloodwork: Bloodwork is used to screen for any abnormalities that would indicate a change in when and how your pet's surgery may be performed, including important changes to anesthesia and pain medications.
IV Fluid Support: While under anesthesia, your pet will normally experience a decrease in blood pressure in response to medication. IV Fluid support helps to support and maintain healthy blood pressure, increasing safety for your pet.
Laser Surgery (GBVH): Laser surgery utilizes a precise and controlled laser as a tool to perform your pet's procedure, decreasing trauma to surrounding areas, reducing inflammation, pain and risk for infection and resulting in a speedier recovery.
Laparascopic Surgery (SFVH): This highly successful, minimally invasive surgical technique results in reduced pain, smaller incision site, decreased surgical time, little to no discomfort and a faster return home after surgery.
Post-surgical Laser Therapy: Recommended to help speed the body's natural healing process, this advanced technique profoundly affects your pet's recovery time.
Microchip: Keep your pet safe and reduce their risk for becoming one of the millions of dogs or cats who are lost each year.