Spay and Neuter FAQs

As a new pet owner, you may have a few misgivings about spaying or neutering your pet due to not fully understanding the purpose or benefits of these procedures. Dr. Branch  and our team at Amelia Pointe Animal Hospital & Daycare in Fernandina Beach have gathered a few of the questions that we run into regarding spay and neuter surgeries.

Spay and Neuter FAQs

What is the purpose of spaying or neutering my pet?

Spay and neuter surgeries sterilize your pet to keep your female from getting pregnant and your male from getting a female pregnant. Sterilizing your pet eliminates the risk of accidental pregnancies and putting you in the position of having to care for unwanted babies.

What are some of the advantages of fixing my pet?

Besides avoiding unwanted pregnancies, having your pet fixed can benefit you, your pet, and your community in the following ways:

  • Fixing your pets eliminates their urge to mate, so they are less likely to display undesirable behaviors linked to mating, such as howling, barking incessantly, spraying to mark their territory, and roaming. Neutering your male pet could make him less destructive and aggressive.
  • Fixing your pets reduces their risk of developing certain reproductive tumors, cancers, and infections that can seriously impair their health. Spay and neuter surgeries can help your pet live a longer, healthier life.
  • Sterilizing your pet helps control the dog and cat population in your community, which means fewer strays on the street and fewer pets being abandoned at your local animal shelter. Keep in mind that pets that aren’t adopted after some time are often put down. By doing your part to control the pet population where you live, you can help save pet lives.

When should I spay or neuter my pet?

Generally, dogs are fixed between 6 and 9 months of age, ideally before your female’s first heat. If your pup is in good health, however, this procedure can be done as early as 8 weeks of age. Cats can be fixed around 8 weeks of age. After examining your pet, our veterinarian will help you set the best time for the surgery. Fixing your pet early enables it to get the maximum health benefits from the procedure.

How do I care for my pet after the surgery?

Our veterinarian will provide clear instructions for post-op home care. We recommend setting up a quiet nook in your home where your pet can rest comfortably during recovery, which may be between 10-14 days.

Contact Our Veterinarian in Fernandina Beach, FL

To schedule a consultation for spay or neuter surgery for your pet, contact Dr. Branch at Amelia Pointe Animal Hospital & Daycare. Call our team today at (904) 310-9990 or reach us through our website by using our online contact form.

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Hospital Hours | *Drop Offs Available at 7:30am

Monday:

9:00 am-6:00 pm

Tuesday:

9:00 am-6:00 pm

Wednesday:

9:00 am-6:00 pm

Thursday:

9:00 am-6:00 pm

Friday:

9:00 am-6:00 pm

Saturday:

9:00 am-1:00 pm

Sunday:

Closed

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Daycare Hours

Monday:

7:00 am-7:00 pm

Tuesday:

7:00 am-7:00 pm

Wednesday:

7:00 am-7:00 pm

Thursday:

7:00 am-7:00 pm

Friday:

7:00 am-7:00 pm

Saturday:

Closed

Sunday:

Closed