Spay & Neuter Services for Pets in Stillwater, MN

Surgery with a Lifetime of Benefits

Choosing to spay or neuter your pet is one of the most important decisions you can make for their long-term health and well-being. At Home Animal Clinic offers spay and neuter procedures in our Stillwater veterinary hospital, backed by compassionate care and personalized guidance every step of the way.

Sterilization not only helps reduce pet overpopulation but also provides a wide range of medical and behavioral benefits, improving your pet’s quality of life and strengthening your bond. If you’re ready to schedule your pet’s spay or neuter surgery, give us a call at (651) 351-7387.

Pomeranian dog wearing recovery suit after sterilization
Pomeranian dog wearing recovery suit after sterilization

Why Spay or Neuter Your Pet?

Spaying (for females) and neutering (for males) can have a positive impact on your pet’s physical health, behavior, and safety.

Kitten wearing recovery suit after surgery

Health Benefits of Spaying & Neutering

Reduced risk of cancers: Spaying eliminates the risk of uterine and ovarian cancer and significantly reduces the risk of mammary tumors, especially when done before the first heat cycle. Neutering eliminates the risk of testicular cancer and lowers the risk of prostate disease.

No heat cycles or related complications: Female pets will no longer go into heat, which can lead to distress, behavioral changes, and the risk of pyometra, a life-threatening uterine infection.

Lower risk of roaming injuries: Neutered males are less likely to roam in search of a mate, reducing their risk of being hit by cars or injured in fights.

Behavioral Benefits of Spaying & Neutering

Decreased marking and spraying: Neutering reduces urine marking in male pets and heat-driven urine marking in females.

Less aggression and anxiety: Sterilized pets tend to be calmer, more focused, and less prone to hormone-driven aggression or anxiety.

Fewer behavioral challenges: Spayed and neutered pets are often less likely to engage in unwanted behaviors like mounting and excessive vocalization.

Community & Population Benefits of Spaying & Neutering

Prevents unwanted litters: Millions of dogs and cats enter shelters each year. Spaying or neutering your pet helps reduce this burden and ensures fewer animals face homelessness or euthanasia.

Helps our community: A single unaltered pet can lead to hundreds of unplanned offspring over time. Sterilization is a responsible step that benefits all pets, and the people who care for them.

When Should I Spay or Neuter My Pet?

The ideal age for spaying or neutering can vary depending on your pet’s breed, size, and health status. We customize recommendations based on your pet’s individual needs and your long-term goals.

  • Kittens: Kittens are typically spayed or neutered at 6 months of age. This age helps kittens bounce back quickly from surgery, before they are capable of reproducing.
  • Small-breed dogs: Small dogs, or those expected to be less than 45 pounds at their adult weight, can usually be spayed or neutered around 6 months of age.
  • Large- and giant-breed dogs: Larger dogs, like German shepherds, golden retrievers, and Great Danes, benefit from delayed spaying and neutering to allow full orthopedic growth. This may push surgery back to 12 to 18 months or longer.
German Shepherd puppy with one floppy ear
chocolate lab and orange Maine Coon

A Simple Step Toward a Healthier Future

Our Stillwater veterinary team uses advanced monitoring, gentle handling, and effective pain control to ensure your pet’s comfort and safety during and after surgery. We treat every pet like our own, keeping you informed and your pet well cared for at every stage of the process.

Have questions? Contact us today for more information about spaying or neutering your pet.