What to Expect Before, During, and After a Spay/Neuter Surgery

Spaying or neutering your pet is one of the most important decisions you can make for their long-term health. It helps prevent unwanted litters, reduces the risk of certain diseases, and can even improve behavior. At Greystone Animal Hospital, your veterinarian in Burnaby, BC, we know that handing your pet over for surgery can feel a little nerve-wracking. That’s why we walk every owner through the process—before, during, and after—so you know just what to expect.

Before the Surgery

Preparation starts the day before the procedure. To keep your pet safe under anesthesia, follow these steps:

•             No food after midnight the night before surgery

•             Water is usually okay until a few hours before drop-off

•             Let us know about any medications or recent illnesses

•             Bring your pet in on a leash or in a carrier

We’ll perform a physical exam and, in some cases, diagnostics to check for any red flags. If your pet is cleared, we’ll move ahead with the plan.

During the Surgery

Spay and neuter surgeries are routine, but we treat each one with care. Here’s what happens:

•             Your pet is given anesthesia and monitored closely

•             The procedure is done in a sterile, quiet setting

•             A spay involves removing the ovaries and uterus

•             A neuter involves removing the testicles

Most surgeries are completed within 30–60 minutes. We keep your pet under observation until they wake up and begin to recover.

After the Surgery

Once you take your pet home, the healing begins. Expect the following:

•             Drowsiness or quiet behavior for the first 24 hours

•             A small incision site with stitches or surgical glue

•             A cone (or e-collar) to prevent licking the wound

•             A limited activity period of 7–10 days

We’ll give you written instructions for home care, including:

•             How to manage pain (usually with oral meds)

•             Signs of infection to watch for (redness, swelling, discharge)

•             When to return for a follow-up, if needed

Get Spay and Neuter Services from a Veterinarian Near You

Spaying or neutering may be a short event, but it has long-term effects. It can lower cancer risk, prevent roaming, and help pets live longer, happier lives. At Greystone Animal Hospital, your veterinarian in Burnaby, BC, we’re with you every step of the way, from the morning drop-off to the happy tail-wag when your pet feels like themselves again.

Call us at (604) 559-4488 for spay and neuter services from a veterinarian near you.