Spaying

The ovariohysterectomy (OVH), or 'spay' as it is commonly called is a procedure performed on female cats and dogs.

As with all surgeries at our clinic, it is not considered routine; it is a surgery where entrance to the abdomen is required. The basic operation consists of a sterile preparation of the incision site and surrounding area, entry into the abdomen, removing specific reproductive organs, and closure.

The organs removed are the two ovaries, both uterine horns and a portion of the uterine body (which is determined by the underlying cause of the surgery). In most cases, the skin is closed by non-absorbable suture and/or staples which must be removed in approximately 10 days.

Some animals may lick or bite at the incision or sutures.Please discourage them from doing so.If the skin is gaping open or if the area swells significantly, contact the veterinarian for instructions.

Other than periodic monitoring, no special procedures are required by the owner. It is recommended that the animal not be bathed or be allowed to get dirty to protect the incision until the sutures are removed. It is also recommended that if the incision oozes any fluid, especially pus, or appears excessively red or swollen that the veterinarian be contacted promptly.

We also suggest the pet's activity be reduced following the surgery, or until the sutures are removed. Keep the animal strictly confined for 24hrs (i.e. Laundry), no walks or games for 5 days then short 5 minute walks on a lead for the next 5 days.This applies even more so with larger breeds as they can put a lot of pressure on the wound, causing it to easily seep, if the dog is too active or in too large an area.