Here at The Spay & Neuter Center of New Jersey we know how stressful it can be when you decide to go ahead with a procedure for your pet. They are family, and while it may be an ordinary day for us, your day is filled with anxiety. Our clinic staff will do everything possible to make the day of your pet's spay or neuter run smoothly for you and your loved one.
The Night Before Surgery
Withhold food after midnight before surgery. Water should be removed the morning of surgery.
Exceptions: Puppies and kittens under 16 weeks old and toy-breed dogs under 10 lbs may have a very small breakfast (1–2 teaspoons) before drop-off. Please do not overfeed your pet the day before surgery.
Morning Drop-Off
Please arrive during your assigned time to help streamline admissions.
- Cats: 7:30–8:00 AM
- Dogs: 8:00–8:30 AM
Bring any requested medical or vaccination records. For safety, dogs must be leashed and cats must be in a secure carrier. One pet per carrier.
The Procedure
We perform multiple spay and neuter surgeries throughout the day. We do not routinely call clients unless we need to. This enables us to serve more clients throughout the day and keep our focus on anesthesia and surgery. However, if you are worried about your loved one, of course you may call us to check in on your pet.
Your pet will be examined by a veterinarian in the morning to make sure he/she appears to be in good health. Our doctors reserve the right to cancel a surgery if we think your pet is not a good anesthesia candidate and needs to be seen by your local veterinarian for an existing health problem.
Shortly after examination, your pet will be sedated and anesthetized for the procedure. We use a combination of drugs that produces excellent pain management with minimal stress to the patient. When your pet is asleep, we administer oxygen and additional gas anesthesia. The surgery is short, varying from 5 minutes for a cat neuter to 20 minutes for a large dog spay. At the end of the procedure, your pet will receive a tattoo. This will ensure that if your pet is ever lost and found by somebody else, they know without a doubt that your pet was already spayed or neutered. This is required. We are adhering to a national standard of care that is supported by organizations like the ASPCA, the Humane Alliance, and the Association of Shelter Veterinarians. As your pet recovers from anesthesia, more pain medication will be administered and your pet will be watched closely for the duration of recovery. The anesthesia we use does wear off quickly; you can expect that your pet will be able to walking by the time he/she goes home.
Afternoon Pick-Up
Pick-up is between 2:00–2:30 PM. Staff will review questions regarding the discharge instructions at that time. Earlier pick-up may be possible for out-of-area clients, depending on recovery and daily schedule.
That Evening
Your pet may be sleepy, anxious, or have a reduced appetite. These effects are normal and temporary. Offer a small meal and water.
- Keep your pet quiet and allow rest
- Discourage children from handling your pet
- Use shredded newspaper litter for cat neuters for 24 hours
- Dogs go home with an e-collar (included); soft collars are available for purchase
Follow-Up Care
Healing takes two weeks. Activity should be restricted during this time. Larger dogs may experience more swelling or bruising.
For concerns, contact us during business hours or email [email protected]. Surgical rechecks are available. For after-hours emergencies, email us for instructions.
If you or your pet have special needs, please contact us in advance so we can best accommodate you.