Spay and neuter
Spay and neuter surgery for dogs and cats in Woodbridge. We help you pick the timing, walk you through surgery day, and send you home with clear care steps.
Planning the surgery
Every spay or neuter starts with an exam. The vet checks your pet’s overall health, talks with you about timing, and may recommend pre-surgical blood work from our in-house laboratory. Tell us about any health issues, recent illness, or medications your pet takes. Once you are ready, we will set a surgery date and give you instructions for the night before.
To get started, call (703) 680-4646 or request an appointment.
What the surgery is
A spay is surgery for female pets that removes the organs needed to have a litter. A neuter is surgery for male pets that removes the testicles. Both are done under general anesthesia, so your pet is fully asleep and does not feel the procedure.
Besides preventing litters, these surgeries can lower the risk of some health problems and can reduce certain behaviors, such as roaming and marking.
When to spay or neuter
There is no single right age for every pet. The best timing depends on whether you have a dog or a cat, your pet’s breed and expected adult size, and their health. Large-breed dogs, for example, are sometimes treated differently than small dogs or cats. The vet will talk through the options with you at your pet’s exam. If you adopted an older pet that has not been fixed, it is usually not too late, so ask at your next visit.
What to expect on surgery day
- You will get fasting directions ahead of time. Follow them closely.
- Typically, you drop your pet off in the morning, and we review the plan with you.
- Your pet is monitored during anesthesia and while waking up.
- We call you when your pet is awake and let you know when to pick up.
You can read more about our general surgery services, too.
Home care after surgery
- Keep your pet calm and quiet. No running, jumping, or rough play until the vet clears it.
- Use the cone or recovery collar so your pet cannot lick the incision.
- Check the incision once or twice a day.
- No baths or swimming until the vet says it is OK.
- Give any medication exactly as directed.
When to call us
If the incision is bleeding, has opened, or your pet is having trouble breathing, call (703) 680-4646 right away. If we are closed, see our after-hours emergency page. Also call if you see swelling, redness, or discharge at the incision, or if your pet will not eat, keeps vomiting, or seems very tired after the first day.
Common questions
What is the difference between a spay and a neuter?
A spay is done on female pets and a neuter on male pets. Both prevent litters.
What age should my pet be spayed or neutered?
It depends on species, breed, size, and health. The vet will recommend timing for your pet at an exam.
Will my pet be asleep during the surgery?
Yes. Both procedures are done under general anesthesia, and your pet is monitored the whole time.
Can my pet eat the night before surgery?
Follow the fasting directions we give you when you book. They tell you exactly when to stop food.
Does my pet need to wear a cone?
Usually, yes. The cone keeps your pet from licking or chewing the incision while it heals.
How long should I keep my pet quiet after surgery?
Follow the vet's directions for your pet. Activity limits usually last until the incision has healed and the vet clears your pet.
Can my pet get a microchip during the same visit?
Yes, many owners choose to do this while their pet is already asleep. Let us know when you schedule.
What should I do if the incision looks wrong?
Call (703) 680-4646 if you see redness, swelling, discharge, or an opening. Bleeding needs a call right away.
Questions, or ready to book?
Call us during open hours or send a request online and we will call you back to set a time.