Spaying is one of the best things you can do for your dog. The “standard” spay (or ovariohysterectomy) involves removing the female reproductive organs: the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and uterus. There are many benefits associated with this process, and they transcend controlling the population of unwanted pets (as important as that is!).

Of course, this preventative procedure is also advised for female cats. If you have a male dog or cat, the San Marco Animal Hospital team in Jacksonville, Florida, will likely want to perform a “standard” neuter (or orchiectomy) sooner rather than later. This process involves removing the testicles. It, too, provides many public safety and pet behavioral and health benefits.

Partly, spaying (or neutering):

• Protects the sustained health of your pet by minimizing the risk of their disease; for instance, by spaying your pet, she is less likely to develop certain cancers (like mammary or breast cancer)
• Supports a healthy and safe household by minimizing undesirable behaviors, such as persistent yowling and an intense desire to mate among female cats and dogs
• Prevents your pet from escaping the house, roaming, and potentially becoming injured or killed (by eliminating the potentially destructive mating-related behaviors and instincts)
• Promotes healthier relationships in your household, both between pets and people and among other pets
• Helps to reduce contagious diseases, some of which can be spread to people from roaming pets
• Contributes to minimizing the number of pets who do not have loving homes and may be euthanized each year
• And much more!

Many animal welfare and veterinary groups, including the American Veterinary Medical Association, recommend that cats be spayed or neutered by no later than five months of age. Our veterinarians can advise on the best time to spay (or neuter) your dog by considering a range of factors – such as breed, underlying health problems, and age.

All patients at our hospital are in very good hands. During surgery, they relax comfortably on heated pads. Performed under general anesthesia for utmost safety and comfort, your pet’s vitals are monitored at every moment. The many potential health benefits far outweigh the rare safety risks associated with anesthesia. Afterwards, your vet will advise on how to support healing at home and when to visit us for follow-up appointments.

Call (904) 399-5557 to schedule your dog’s (or cat’s) appointment today. When you contact us, be sure to inquire about our affordable wellness plans, which cover many essential preventative services.