Spay/Neuter FAQs

Spay/Neuter FAQs

How do I schedule an appointment?

Due to the months-long wait list for free and low-cost spay/neuter surgery, we are not accepting new applications for appointments at this time. We hope to resume accepting new patients in the spring. If you’re seeking sterilization surgery for a feral or community cat (an unowned cat who lives outside), please contact us at PGFeralFix@gmail.com.

 

What time is my appointment?

We reserve your surgery appointment for a specific day, not a specific time. On the day of surgery, drop-off is between 7:30am and 8:30am. Surgeries happen throughout the day, and we’ll contact you when it’s time to pick up — usually sometime between noon and 5:00pm. Our call may come from a number you do not recognize, so make sure you answer all calls that afternoon.

What if I need to cancel?

It happens, but no-shows leave vacant surgery spots that could’ve helped someone else, so as soon as you realize you cannot keep your appointment, send an email to clinic@pgspca.org or call 301-262-5625 extension 9 to let us know. We have a long wait list and can quickly fill your spot. We will reschedule you for a later date, but there is likely to be a long wait. If you miss your appointment without cancelling, we cannot guarantee you another appointment.

Are there special pre-surgery instructions?

Please don’t feed your animal(s) after midnight the night before surgery. All dogs must be brought in on a leash and all pet cats must be in individual carriers. Feral or community cats must be in traps. We strongly recommend you secure cats (both pet cats and feral cats) the night before. In our experience, most clients who wait until the morning of their appointment have to cancel because they can’t catch the cat.

Contain your animal: All dogs must be brought in on a leash and all pet cats must be in individual carriers. Feral or community cats must be in traps.

Veterinary paperwork: If you’re bringing in your pet, be sure to bring any veterinary paperwork, especially proof of rabies vaccination (which is required by law). We administer a rabies vaccine to all animals lacking rabies documentation.

Grant eligibility: If your pet’s surgery is covered by our spay/neuter grant, make sure you bring documentation to support your eligibility. Your appointment confirmation email specified what documents are required.

Besides surgery and rabies vaccination, what other services do you offer?

On the day of surgery, you can purchase the additional services listed below. Payment is due at drop-off; we accept cash, credit/debit cards and Apple Pay.

  • DHPP (canine) or FVRCP (feline) Vaccination  $15
  • Nail Trim $10 (not offered for ferals)
  • Ear Cleaning $10
  • FIV/FeLV Test (feline) $30
  • HomeAgain Microchip $30
  • Flea and Tick Prevention (one monthly dose) $15

What will I need for my animal’s successful recovery?

We’ll provide detailed post-surgical care instructions when you pick up. Feral cats are recovered in the trap overnight. Pet cats or dogs may need an e-collar (or cone) to prevent irritation to their incision and to promote healing. Some clients choose to use a surgical suit. Note: we do not sell these items at our clinic; you may wish to purchase one in advance. Make sure you get the right size – an ill-fitting e-collar will not protect the incision.

Will my animal need to return to have stitches removed?

No, we use dissolvable suture.