
Spay & Neuter in Pacific Grove, CA
Spaying or neutering your pet increases their quality of life. Medical benefits give them lasting health, while behavioral changes cause them (and you!) less anxiety so they can focus more on their relationship with you. Pacific Grove Animal Hospital provides spay and neuter surgery for dogs and cats.
Understanding Spay & Neuter
Spaying is the surgical removal of the ovaries and uterus in female pets, while neutering removes the testicles in males. Both are routine surgeries that prevent unwanted litters and lower the risk of certain reproductive diseases and cancers.
Keep in mind that while behavioral changes do take place in many animals, they are not always guaranteed, as they depend on your pet’s individual personality and characteristics. Our team is happy to answer your questions about the best timing and approach for your pet.

What to Expect During Spay & Neuter Surgery
Our team works to make every spay and neuter procedure as safe and stress-free as possible for pets and their owners.
Pre-Surgical Assessment
Before surgery, your pet receives a physical exam and a review of their medical history. We may recommend pre-anesthetic bloodwork to check organ function and help tailor anesthesia to your pet.
Anesthesia and Monitoring
Your pet is placed under carefully monitored anesthesia, and their vital signs are tracked throughout the procedure. Pain management is part of every step.
Surgery
Spay and neuter surgeries are performed using sterile surgical technique and careful protocols designed to reduce the risk of complications.
Recovery and Aftercare
Your pet is closely watched as they wake from anesthesia. We send you home with aftercare instructions, and our team is available to answer questions while your pet heals.
Why Spay & Neuter Matters for Your Pet
The following benefits apply to your sterilized pet:
Benefits for Females
- Less inclination to roam for a mate
- No heat cycles, which cause frustration and bleeding in dogs
- Possible reduction of urine marking or spraying
- Prevention of uterine infection and cancers
- Minimized risk of mammary tumors
Benefits for Males
- Less inclination to roam for a mate
- Subdued aggression
- Possible reduction of urine marking and mounting
- Prevention of prostate problems and testicular cancer
Benefits for the Community
Preventing unwanted litters helps reduce pet overpopulation in Pacific Grove and the surrounding area.
Signs It’s Time to Talk About Spay or Neuter Surgery
Many pets are spayed or neutered when young, but adopted or older pets may still need surgery. Contact our team if you notice:
- A female pet going into heat
- Mounting or urine marking
- Roaming or escape attempts
- An unplanned pregnancy
When Should Your Pet Be Spayed or Neutered?
Spay and neuter surgery is done once in a pet’s lifetime. The ideal age varies with species, breed, size, and overall health, and adult pets can benefit as well. Our veterinarians will recommend the best timing for your pet during a wellness exam.
Practice Highlights
- Soft Tissue Surgery Is a Special Interest of owner Dr. Brynie Kaplan Dau
- AAHA Accredited and a Cat Friendly Practice® Gold
- Voted Best Vet in Monterey County by Monterey Weekly six years in a row
- Payment Options including all major credit cards, CareCredit, and Cherry
Schedule Your Pet’s Spay or Neuter Today
Give your pet lasting health benefits and help prevent unwanted litters. Call our team at (831) 318-0306 to schedule your pet’s spay or neuter surgery. We are located at 1023 Austin Avenue, Pacific Grove, CA 93950 and open Monday through Friday, 8:00 am to 5:30 pm, including during the lunch hour.
Spay & Neuter: Frequently Asked Questions
Why should I spay or neuter my pet?
Spaying or neutering increases your pet’s quality of life. It prevents unwanted litters, offers lasting medical benefits such as preventing uterine infection and testicular cancer, and can reduce roaming and marking. Contact our team to discuss the best timing for your pet.
Will spaying or neutering change my pet’s behavior?
Many pets roam less and show less marking, mounting, or aggression after surgery. However, behavioral changes are not always guaranteed, because they depend on your pet’s individual personality and characteristics.
How should I prepare my pet for surgery, and what aftercare is needed?
Before surgery, your pet should fast as directed by our team. Afterward, keep your pet calm, restrict activity, and watch the incision site. We provide detailed instructions and are available for questions at (831) 318-0306.
What health problems does spaying or neutering help prevent?
In females, spaying prevents heat cycles, uterine infection, and uterine cancers, and minimizes the risk of mammary tumors. In males, neutering prevents testicular cancer and prostate problems.
How do I schedule a spay or neuter appointment?
Call (831) 318-0306. We are located at 1023 Austin Avenue, Pacific Grove, CA 93950 and open Monday through Friday, 8:00 am to 5:30 pm, including during the lunch hour.
Ready to book Spay & Neuter?
Request a time online or give our front desk a call. New and returning patients are welcome.



