Hey there, fellow pet parents! If you’re reading this, chances are you’re either thinking about spaying or neutering your furry friend or you’ve already booked the appointment and now your mind is buzzing with last-minute questions. Good — because this is one of the most important decisions you’ll make for your pet’s health and happiness.

At Atlas Animal Hospital, we talk to pet owners every day about spaying and neutering. While most people ask the basics — like “When should I do it?” and “Will it hurt my pet?” — there are a few smart, lesser-known questions that often go unasked. And trust me, you should be asking them.

Let’s get into it.

1. What’s the right age for my pet to be spayed or neutered?

Most people hear the general guideline: around 6 months old. But here’s the thing — there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. The ideal timing depends on your pet’s species, breed, size, and overall health.

• Small dogs and cats can often be safely altered around 5-6 months.
• Large breed dogs sometimes benefit from waiting until they’re a bit older (around 12-18 months) to avoid joint issues later.
• Certain breeds with specific health risks may need special consideration.

Tip: Don’t just follow what you read online — ask your vet, “When is the right time for my pet based on their breed and lifestyle?”

If you’re unsure, give us a call at (604) 301-0300 — we’ll happily talk through the best timing for your specific fur baby.

2. Will this change my pet’s personality?

Ah, the classic worry. Pet owners often hesitate because they fear their playful, loving pet might turn into a couch potato post-surgery. Here’s the truth:

Spaying or neutering won’t change the core of your pet’s personality — but it can help tone down some undesirable behaviors:

• Unwanted marking in male dogs and cats
• Roaming and escape attempts in search of a mate
• Territorial aggression or excessive mounting

Your pet will still be the same lovable goofball or snuggle bug you adore — just with less drama. Still worried? Ask your vet how your pet’s behavior might shift in the weeks following surgery.

3. What’s the recovery like, and what should I watch for?

Recovery is usually smoother than most people expect, but it’s super important to know what to look out for.

Things to ask your vet:

• How long will my pet need to rest?
• When can they go for walks or play again?
• How do I keep them from licking or biting the incision?
• What should the incision look like (and what’s a red flag)?
• Are pain meds or antibiotics needed at home?

Pro tip: Pick up a comfy cone (yes, they make soft ones too!) before surgery day. And be ready to play nurse for about 10-14 days.

At Atlas Animal Hospital, we walk you through everything — from what to expect right after surgery to how to spot signs of trouble. If you’re ever unsure, don’t hesitate to call us.

4. Are there any long-term health effects I should know about?

Most pet owners know spaying and neutering prevents unwanted litters, but there’s more to it:

• Spaying reduces the risk of mammary tumors in female dogs and cats — especially if done before their first heat.
• Neutering helps prevent testicular cancer and can lower the risk of prostate issues in male pets.
• It can also decrease the chances of uterine infections (pyometra), which can be life-threatening.

But here’s the part pet owners often forget to ask: Are there downsides? In rare cases, early neutering in large-breed dogs might slightly increase the risk of joint issues or certain types of cancer. That’s why individualized timing is key. Ask your vet, “Are there long-term risks for my pet’s breed and age?”

5. What will this cost — and what’s included?

People sometimes shy away from asking about cost because they don’t want to seem “cheap.” But you should absolutely know what you’re paying for.

Good questions to ask:

• Does the price include pre-surgical bloodwork?
• Are pain medications and follow-ups included?
• What kind of anesthesia and monitoring will be used?
• Is there post-op care guidance provided?

At Atlas Animal Hospital, we believe in being upfront and clear. If you’re curious about pricing and what’s covered, just give us a call. No pressure, no hard sell — just honest answers.

Bottom Line: It’s Okay to Ask More

Spaying and neutering are routine procedures, but your pet is anything but routine. Don’t be shy about bringing up every little question you have — even the ones you think sound silly. A good vet (like our team here at Atlas Animal Hospital) will appreciate that you care enough to ask.

And if you’d like to chat about your pet’s spay or neuter options, feel free to call us at (604) 301-0300 or stop by. We’re always happy to help you make the best choices for your four-legged family.