Vet reading a chart and petting a dog

Surgery

Our surgeons are capable of a wide range of general surgical procedures such as spays, neuters, soft-tissue procedures, emergency procedures, ophthalmic procedures and more. Though we always try to avoid it, there are times when we have to operate on a pet. This can be to prevent disease like when we find a small growth that needs to be removed, but it can also be to save the life of a pet, for example when they eat something silly and their intestines become blocked. For more complex or specialty surgical services we have partnerships with specialized surgeons for the jobs that need a little extra care. Our pain management programs are second to none so your pet will be comfortable following their procedure.  From cancer to fracture, we’ve got you covered. 

Spay & Neuter

Every year thousands of stray and unwanted animals are euthanized in shelters across the United States. Many of these deaths are the avoidable result of owners failing to spay and neuter their pets. Even if you keep a close watch on your pet, accidents happen, and unexpected offspring means more animals that won’t be given the chance at full, happy lives. This is why our pet hospital recommends spaying or neutering your pet.

Spaying and neutering can help end this cycle, and both procedures can have health benefits for pets.


Spaying

Spaying is a common surgical procedure performed on female cats and dogs. The process is called an ovariohysterectomy and involves removing the patient’s uterus, ovaries, and fallopian tubes, rendering the animal incapable of reproduction. Destin Animal Clinic veterinarians recommend spaying your pet at 3-6 months, depending on your dog’s breed and ideally before the patient’s first heat.

Benefits:

  • Prevents unwanted pregnancies
  • Eliminates the risk of ovarian and uterine tumors
  • Remove the possibility of uterine infections

What to expect after surgery

Spaying is a major surgery requiring 7-10 days of recovery time. Recovery may also include pain medication and lethargy is common for the first couple of days following the procedure. A small, green tattoo is applied post-surgery that signifies that the animal is spayed should she ever get lost or taken to a shelter.


Neutering

Neutering is performed on male cats and dogs. This process castrates the animal, removing their testicles and making them unable to impregnate females. Neutering is advised when your pet is 4-6 months old but can be performed on older animals as well.

Benefits

  • Placates the animal, reducing aggressive behavior and decreasing dominant tendencies
  • Reduces roaming and spraying (territory marking)
  • Eliminates the risk of testicular and prostate tumors

What to expect after surgery

Although less invasive than spaying, neutering is still a major medical procedure that requires some recovery time. Recovery may also include pain medication and lethargy is common for the first couple of days following the procedure. It’s extremely important that you monitor your pet to prevent the animal from licking or biting the incision to reduce the risk of infection.

Spay and Neutering Services Near You

At Destin Animal Clinic, our dedicated staff is here to help your pet get through this procedure as safe and comfortable as possible. If you have any questions or concerns about our spaying and neutering services, contact us today!