Why is it So Important to Spay & Neuter Your Pet?

          

Deciding to spay or neuter your pet (i.e., a safe and effective sterilization procedure done on female pets or male pets, respectively) is a highly personal decision. Not every pet owner chooses to, nor do they have to. However, at the Alum Rock Animal Hospital, we strongly recommend pet owners in the San Jose get their beloved animal companions neutered or spayed. 

Here are a few reasons why:

• Spaying or neutering your animal can extend its life - Research has shown that pets who have been sterilized can live up to 3 to 5 years longer!
• Spaying and neutering prevent unwanted animals from being born - Millions and millions of unwanted kittens and puppies are sent to shelters every year. Sadly, many are euthanized since there are more animals than homes to take them. 
• Spaying and neutering reduce or eliminates your pet's risk of several health problems - Female pets who have been spayed have a reduced risk of breast cancer and eliminated the risk of ovarian or uterine cancer (not to mention no risk of whelping/pregnancy-related complications!). Male dogs and cats who have been neutered avoid prostate and testicular cancer.
• Spaying and neutering can reduce or eliminate unwanted behavioral issues in your pet - Since female animals won't go into heat, you won't have to deal with monthly menstruation or excessive licking. Neutered male animals also tend to be less territorial and may be less likely to show aggression, marking, or roaming behaviors.
• Spaying and neutering save you money - It's cost-effective to get your animal sterilized since you'll never have to pay for the high expenses of a pet pregnancy and may even be less likely to pay for things like reproductive cancers. 

When Should I Have My Pet Spayed or Neutered?

Healthy kittens and puppies as young as 8 weeks old can be safely spayed or neutered, while the standard for dogs is around 6 to 9 months, and the standard age for cats is by 5 months. It's best to have your animal sterilized when he or she is still young, to reduce the risk of post-operative complications and maximize the associated health benefits.

Sterilizing your animal is a safe procedure. Our team works thoroughly to ensure you'll know what to do before and after the procedure and how to help your animal recover. Recovery is typically quick, with your kitten or puppy being back to their full rambunctious force within a day or two. The risk of anesthesia side effects or complications is very low. 

Spay and Neuter in San Jose with Our Veterinary Team Today

If you're looking for spay and neuter in San Jose, call Alum Rock Animal Hospital now at 408-258-2735. Our San Jose veterinary staff would be happy to answer your questions and tell you more about the many pet services we offer. Contact us today, and be sure to ask about our 25% OFF special for first-time clients!