Expert Pet Spay and Neuter in Hershey, PA

Spaying and neutering are some of the most common and beneficial surgical procedures performed at Hershey Veterinary Hospital. As an AAHA-accredited hospital, we provide exceptional care with a focus on safety and comfort. Our experienced veterinarians perform all surgeries in a modern, fully equipped surgical suite designed to ensure the safest experience for your pet.

A dedicated staff member continuously monitors each patient throughout anesthesia and recovery until they are fully awake. Vital signs—including heart rate, temperature, and blood oxygenation—are closely tracked at all times. Special warming pads help maintain your pet’s body temperature during surgery, and IV fluids are administered to many patients under anesthesia to support hydration and circulation.

Surgical patients are cared for in a separate, quiet area of the hospital under constant supervision. Comfort is a top priority at Hershey Veterinary Hospital; therefore, all surgical patients receive appropriate pain medication to ensure a smooth and comfortable recovery.

When Should I Spay or Neuter My Pet?

While 5–6 months is the typical age, the ideal timing can vary based on your pet’s breed, size, and health status. Our veterinarians will discuss your pet’s individual needs during a wellness exam or pre-surgical consultation to help you make the best choice.

Spay Surgery (Ovariohysterectomy)

We provide spaying for female dogs and cats in Hershey. Spaying is the surgical removal of the uterus and ovaries and is typically recommended around 6 months of age, ideally before the first heat cycle.

Key Benefits of Spaying:

Prevents uterine infections (pyometra), which can be life-threatening
Dramatically lowers the risk of mammary (breast) tumors, especially when performed early
Eliminates the possibility of unwanted pregnancies
Can reduce behaviors associated with heat cycles such as vocalization, urine marking, and restlessness

Species-Specific Notes:

Dogs: Female dogs typically experience their first heat cycle between 6 and 12 months of age. They usually have two heat cycles per year, each lasting 2–3 weeks. During this time, dogs will bleed and may exhibit behavioral changes such as increased restlessness and vocalization. Scheduling a dog spay in Hershey will help eliminate these behaviours.
Cats: Female cats can have multiple heat cycles throughout the year, often starting as early as 4 months of age. Unlike dogs, cats do not bleed during heat but become very vocal, affectionate, and may spray urine to attract mates.
Pets typically go home the same day as surgery and require about two weeks of rest and limited activity for full recovery. Dogs and cats must have proof of a current rabies vaccine at the time of spay; if not, the vaccine will be administered at our hospital during the appointment.

Neuter Surgery (Castration)

Our neuter services include surgical castration for male dogs, cats, and rabbits. Neutering involves the surgical removal of the testicles and is typically recommended around 6 months of age. Pets usually go home the same day, with rest and limited activity advised for about two weeks following the procedure.

Dogs and cats must have proof of a current rabies vaccination at the time of neuter surgery; if not current, the vaccine will be administered at our hospital.

Benefits of Neutering:

Eliminates the risk of testicular cancer
Reduces the incidence of certain prostate problems
Helps curb behavioral issues such as roaming, urine marking, digging, excessive barking, and aggression

Species-Specific Notes:

Dogs: Neuter dogs in Hershey to help prevent unwanted behaviors like running off, excessive barking, and digging.
Cats: Neutered male cats typically show significant reductions in urine spraying, aggression, and roaming behavior.
Rabbits: Neutered rabbits are less likely to develop reproductive cancers, are calmer, easier to handle, and less prone to urine spraying.

What to Expect Before Your Pet’s Spay or Neuter Surgery

At Hershey Veterinary Hospital, we perform spay and neuter surgeries by appointment only, Monday through Friday. Pet owners and their pets can have the best experience by following these important details:

Surgery Day Drop-Off: Please bring your pet to the clinic between 7:00 and 8:00 a.m. on the day of the scheduled procedure.
Pre-Surgical Review: Our veterinarian will review the surgical procedure with you and perform a thorough pre-surgical physical examination to ensure your pet is healthy and ready for anesthesia.
Fasting Instructions: Do not feed your pet anything after 8:00 p.m. the night before surgery. Water may be given up until the time of drop-off.
Pre-Anesthetic Blood Work: Blood testing is recommended for all surgical patients and required for all adult pets to help ensure safety during anesthesia.
Cost Estimate: A detailed quote for all procedures and services will be provided during your pre-anesthetic evaluation with the veterinarian.

Following these guidelines helps us provide the safest care possible and gives your pet the best chance for a smooth surgery and recovery.

Your Partner in Veterinary Care

All pets must have a current rabies vaccination before surgery. If your pet is not up to date, we will administer this vaccine at the time of surgery to ensure compliance and protection.

Our hospital follows strict anesthesia and monitoring protocols, using advanced equipment to keep your pet safe and comfortable throughout the procedure. We provide detailed pre-surgical exams and post-operative instructions to support a smooth recovery.

Whether you’re scheduling a cat spay in Hershey, a dog neuter in Hershey, or want to discuss the right time to spay or neuter your pet, our veterinary team is here to help. Contact Hershey Veterinary Hospital today to request an appointment online, learn more about our pet surgery services, or schedule your pet’s wellness exam to discuss spay and neuter timing with our team.

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