Pet Spay and Neuter Services in Conway, AR
Safe, Compassionate Surgical Care to Support Long-Term Pet Health
At St. Francis Veterinary Clinic, we are proud to offer professional spay and neuter services in Conway to support your pet’s health and well-being while contributing to the broader goal of reducing pet overpopulation. Choosing to spay or neuter your pet is one of the most responsible and impactful decisions a pet owner can make.
These routine surgical procedures are not only safe and effective but also play a vital role in preventing future health problems and helping pets live longer, healthier lives.
What Is Spaying and Neutering?
Spaying (for females) and neutering (for males) are surgical procedures that prevent pets from reproducing. They are typically recommended around six months of age, before pets reach sexual maturity, though age and timing can vary based on individual needs and breed.
- Spaying involves the surgical removal of the uterus and ovaries in female pets, preventing pregnancy and eliminating heat cycles.
- Neutering involves removing the testicles in male pets, eliminating fertility and reducing hormone-driven behaviors.
While the procedures sound complex, both are generally quick and routine, with most pets returning home the same day and making a full recovery within days.
Why Spay or Neuter Your Pet?
Spaying and neutering provide a wide range of health, behavioral, and community benefits. These include:
- Preventing unwanted litters, helping reduce shelter overpopulation
- Reducing the risk of reproductive cancers, such as testicular, ovarian, and uterine cancer
- Minimizing hormone-related behaviors, like spraying, marking, aggression, and roaming
- Eliminating heat cycles, along with related behaviors like vocalizing and bleeding
- Increasing life expectancy by preventing medical issues and injuries associated with roaming or mating
Studies have shown that spayed or neutered pets often live longer, healthier lives — and their human companions enjoy fewer behavioral challenges.
What to Expect During Surgery
Your pet’s safety and comfort are our top priorities. Before the procedure, we’ll perform a thorough physical examination and recommend pre-anesthetic bloodwork to check for underlying conditions. On the day of surgery:
- Your pet will be placed under general anesthesia and monitored by trained veterinary staff.
- The spay or neuter procedure will be performed in our sterile surgical suite.
- After surgery, your pet will rest in our recovery area until they are fully awake and stable.
- We’ll provide at-home recovery instructions and any necessary pain medications.
Most pets go home the same day, and full recovery typically takes 7–10 days. During that time, your pet should avoid running, jumping, or licking the surgical site.
When Should You Spay or Neuter Your Pet?
Timing is an important factor when it comes to spaying or neutering your pet. While the general recommendation is around six months of age, the ideal timing can vary depending on your pet’s species, breed, and health status.
General Guidelines:
Cats
Most kittens can be safely spayed or neutered between 5–6 months old. In some cases, earlier procedures (as young as 8 weeks) may be appropriate, especially in shelter settings.
Small to Medium Dog Breeds
Spaying or neutering is typically recommended at 6–9 months of age. This allows time for development while still preventing early reproductive behaviors or health risks.
Large and Giant Dog Breeds
In some cases, delaying surgery until 12–18 months may be advised to allow bones and joints to fully mature, particularly for male dogs. We’ll provide breed-specific guidance during your wellness visit.
Pets with Health Concerns
If your pet has a preexisting medical condition, we’ll evaluate the risks and determine the safest time for surgery based on bloodwork and clinical exam results.
It’s always best to discuss the timing with your veterinarian during a routine wellness exam. Our team at St. Francis Veterinary Clinic will help you choose the safest, most appropriate timeline based on your pet’s unique needs.