Animal Birth Control, Inc.

You've made the right decision!  Now comes the actual surgery and you are sure to have some questions.  We've tried to map out each step, but if you have questions please ask!  Call the vet clinic or contact us here at ABC -- we all want you to understand exactly what will take place.

The following information is not intended to replace or modify the advice of your veterinarian.  We encourage you to speak with your veterinarian, and to follow their advice.

The night before your pet's surgery

Your pet should not have any food or water after midnight prior to surgery.  If possible, confine your pet for the night to make sure they don't get into any food or water.  If they do, or if you think they did, it is very important that you inform the vet clinic before the surgery.

Day of surgery 

On the day of the surgery, please give your pet plenty of time to potty before taking them to the clinic.  And then arrive a little early for your appointment as there will be some forms to sign.  Make sure you bring proof of vaccinations.

You will need to sign a consent form before your pet's surgery.  This form explains that there are risks with this surgical procedure, just as there are with all procedures.  If you have questions, please ask, as the staff wants you to fully understand what you are signing.

Make sure you discuss with the staff what time you can pick up your pet and even what time you can call to check on their progress.  You should also ask what you will be expected to pay, just to make sure any misunderstandings are worked out prior to the surgery. 

Remember, ABC will help with the surgical expense, but cannot help with additional costs such as vaccinations.   So if in doubt, please clarify that with the staff before the surgery.

After the surgery

If possible, leave the kids and other pets at home when you go to pick up your pet.  After surgery your pet will probably still be a little groggy and a little sore, and it's best to keep them as quiet as possible for a day or two. 

Younger dogs are much more resilient and you'll be surprised at how quickly they are back to their old selves, but you should still try to keep them from too much rough housing at least until the stitches are removed for females.

Depending on the dog, pain meds might be appropriate for the first couple days.  Aspirin alone might be enough, again, discuss this with the vet.

After Care - Females

Until the stitches are removed, keep your pet clean.   No swimming and limit activities where the stitches could be snagged.  Make sure their bedding in clean.  Discourage excessive licking of the area.

If you notice any redness, swelling or the area is hot to the touch, or if they aren't eating or are vomitting, or if they pull the stiches out -- contact the vet clinic. 

Females will need to be brought back to the vet after 10 days for the stitches to be removed and for the vet to checkup on her progress.

Complications for the surgery are rare, but not unheard of.  Females run a risk of bladder infections, so watch for those signs.

After Care - Males

Males do not require any follow up unless the owner feels they aren't healing properly.

Do try to keep them quiet for the first 24-48 hours after surgery.  And do discourage any excessive licking of the area. 

Neutering of male cats will normally stop them from spraying, but that might not happen immediately.  It could take weeks for that to stop, so don't expect that to occur overnight.

Neutering of male dogs often reduces their urge to roam and can calm them.  But neutering is not a replacement for training and neutering does not eliminate aggression.  Neutering along with proper training is the only way to have a well behaved dog.