A spay or ovariohysterectomy involves removing the females uterus and ovaries. This should be done at around 6 months of age, which is usually before the first heat cycle. It is preferred that your pet is not in heat or pregnant when being spayed. The uterus and ovaries at this time are much more vascular and the surgery is harder on your pet and the surgeon. If your pet is in heat, we may refuse to spay her if we feel there is any risk of severe hemorrhage (bleeding).
There are several benefits to spaying your pet: the risk of uterine infections is eliminated, she does not come into heat anymore, the risk of mammary tumors is reduced if done early, and unwanted puppies and kittens are prevented.