Animalworks
Alcoa, Tennessee
General Info
AnimalWorks is a low-cost, high volume spay/neuter clinic in Alcoa, TN. We offer vaccinations, testing, and spay/neuter services to anyone within the surrounding areas and rescues. Call today for an appointment and read the Q&A below if you would like more information!
**********************************************************
Q: What is spaying?
A: Spaying is the common name for a procedure called an “ovariohysterectomy”. This is an abdominal surgery in which the uterus and ovaries are removed from the female’s body. This procedure will make her incapable of reproduction and is the common practice to sterilize females.
Q: What is neutering?
A: Neutering is the common name for a procedure called “an orchiectomy”. This is an externeral surgery and does not commonly enter the abdominal cavity although is the case of some cryptorchids with an abdominally retained testicle it might. In this procedure both testicles are removed from the male’s body making him sterile and removing him from the gene pool.
Q: Will the surgery hurt my pet?
A: It is a surgical procedure so some pain and inflammation is common. The surgery itself is done with the pet asleep under general anesthesia where they cannot feel a thing. Pain medicines are given after surgery that can give the pet pain relief for up to 36hrs after surgery depending on their metabolism.
Q: Will my pet gain weight after surgery?
A: It is common for a pet’s metabolism to slow down a bit after surgery. It is possible, however, to maintain your pet at a healthy body weight by adjusting the pet’s food intake. It is possible to keep your pet healthy regardless of their reproductive status.
Q: Will it change my pet’s personality?
A: Surgery should not alter your pet’s friendly or exuberant behavior. At most you should see a decrease in undesirable behaviors like house marking, aggression, escape/roaming and courting behaviors especially in male dogs.
Q: How long is recovery?
A: Animals are remarkable in their ability to recover from major surgery. This same set of surgeries, when done in humans, can put someone out of work for 6wks or more. For our pets, recovery sees them back to eating and acting almost normally within 48-72hrs and totally back to their normal self in 5 days. Full healing for the incision and surgical sites can take one week for the superficial layers to several months for the deeper tissue. Complications can postpone healing, of course.
Q: Shouldn’t my dog/cat have a litter first?
A: This is an old wive’s tale. It was once believed that allowing a female animal to have a litter before being spayed was good for her body. Studies have since been done that indicate that the greater the number of litters and heat cycles that a female dog goes through before she is spayed substantially increases her risk of severe health problems like mammary cancer and pyometra. Having a female dog spayed prior to her first birthday can substantially increase her lifespan.
Q: How old do they need to be?
A: Different vets recommend different ages for spay and neuter. Here at AnimalWorks we have successfully practiced “pediatric alters” meaning that we routinely neuter and spay animals at 8wks. Our guidelines are that your pet must be 8wks and 2lbs or more to be fixed here. We believe that the surgery is easier on the pet at this time when they are still small and resilient both mentally and physically. We also believe that it helps to create a pet who is never distracted by reproduction hormones and can have a stronger lasting bond with their owners. Lastly, it prevents accidental unwanted litters by dogs/cats who reach maturity before the norm and before their owners realize it they have a puppy having puppies!
Q: Can a pregnant animal be spayed, and what risk is involved?
A: A pregnant animal can be spayed at the discretion of the veterinarian performing the surgery. There are greater anesthetic risks as well as risk of incision complications, however, this surgery has been performed regularly here at AnimalWorks with great success and is often better for the female in the long run. Rarely, a dog may have a “pseudocyesis” experience after surgery meaning that, due to the hormones involved, they actually feel they have had a litter and might experience lactation, nesting, and mothering (which can include children, other family pets, or inanimate objects.)
Q: Can an animal in heat be spayed, and what risk is involved?
A: A female can be “in heat” or estrus during the surgical procedure. This is done routinely, especially in cats, and while the procedure can be more tedious for the veterinarian there is often no additional risk to the patient. Extra blood loss can be a complication.
Q: Shouldn’t my dog/cat have at least one heat cycle first?
A: This is a commonly debated question in veterinary medicine. While some veterinarians do believe that a single heat cycle releases hormones into the blood stream that are important for maturation of the body, there has been little scientific evidence to suggest that animals neutered before a heat cycle are negatively impacted. We feel that the risks of waiting for sexual maturity far outweigh the benefits.
Q: Why does my vet say that my pet has to be at least 6 months old before having surgery?
A: Veterinarians all have different scientific logic behind their protocols. Some veterinarians have selected 6 months for the above listed rationale. Others believe that an older puppy is stronger and has had a chance to develop immunity to the viruses. These bits of logic are reasonable for most pets but we feel strongly that since pediatric surgeries are not harmful to the pet at all, they should be recommended in most cases.
Q: Is there a licensed veterinarian performing the surgery?
A: There is ALWAYS a licensed veterinarian performing the surgery.
Q: Will my pet be asleep for his/her surgery?
A: All surgical procedures are performed with high quality veterinary care including surgical plane anesthesia. This means all pets are completely “asleep” for the duration of the procedure.
Q: Will my pet have pain meds to take at home after surgery?
A: Most pets are not sent home with pain meds for the owner to administer. HOWEVER, ALL pets are given a post surgical long term pain medicine injection.
Q: Can I give my pet over the counter pain meds?
A: Please never give your pet over the counter medication without consulting a veterinarian. Common medicines like Tylenol can be bad for dogs and deadly for cats.
**********************************************************
Q: What is spaying?
A: Spaying is the common name for a procedure called an “ovariohysterectomy”. This is an abdominal surgery in which the uterus and ovaries are removed from the female’s body. This procedure will make her incapable of reproduction and is the common practice to sterilize females.
Q: What is neutering?
A: Neutering is the common name for a procedure called “an orchiectomy”. This is an externeral surgery and does not commonly enter the abdominal cavity although is the case of some cryptorchids with an abdominally retained testicle it might. In this procedure both testicles are removed from the male’s body making him sterile and removing him from the gene pool.
Q: Will the surgery hurt my pet?
A: It is a surgical procedure so some pain and inflammation is common. The surgery itself is done with the pet asleep under general anesthesia where they cannot feel a thing. Pain medicines are given after surgery that can give the pet pain relief for up to 36hrs after surgery depending on their metabolism.
Q: Will my pet gain weight after surgery?
A: It is common for a pet’s metabolism to slow down a bit after surgery. It is possible, however, to maintain your pet at a healthy body weight by adjusting the pet’s food intake. It is possible to keep your pet healthy regardless of their reproductive status.
Q: Will it change my pet’s personality?
A: Surgery should not alter your pet’s friendly or exuberant behavior. At most you should see a decrease in undesirable behaviors like house marking, aggression, escape/roaming and courting behaviors especially in male dogs.
Q: How long is recovery?
A: Animals are remarkable in their ability to recover from major surgery. This same set of surgeries, when done in humans, can put someone out of work for 6wks or more. For our pets, recovery sees them back to eating and acting almost normally within 48-72hrs and totally back to their normal self in 5 days. Full healing for the incision and surgical sites can take one week for the superficial layers to several months for the deeper tissue. Complications can postpone healing, of course.
Q: Shouldn’t my dog/cat have a litter first?
A: This is an old wive’s tale. It was once believed that allowing a female animal to have a litter before being spayed was good for her body. Studies have since been done that indicate that the greater the number of litters and heat cycles that a female dog goes through before she is spayed substantially increases her risk of severe health problems like mammary cancer and pyometra. Having a female dog spayed prior to her first birthday can substantially increase her lifespan.
Q: How old do they need to be?
A: Different vets recommend different ages for spay and neuter. Here at AnimalWorks we have successfully practiced “pediatric alters” meaning that we routinely neuter and spay animals at 8wks. Our guidelines are that your pet must be 8wks and 2lbs or more to be fixed here. We believe that the surgery is easier on the pet at this time when they are still small and resilient both mentally and physically. We also believe that it helps to create a pet who is never distracted by reproduction hormones and can have a stronger lasting bond with their owners. Lastly, it prevents accidental unwanted litters by dogs/cats who reach maturity before the norm and before their owners realize it they have a puppy having puppies!
Q: Can a pregnant animal be spayed, and what risk is involved?
A: A pregnant animal can be spayed at the discretion of the veterinarian performing the surgery. There are greater anesthetic risks as well as risk of incision complications, however, this surgery has been performed regularly here at AnimalWorks with great success and is often better for the female in the long run. Rarely, a dog may have a “pseudocyesis” experience after surgery meaning that, due to the hormones involved, they actually feel they have had a litter and might experience lactation, nesting, and mothering (which can include children, other family pets, or inanimate objects.)
Q: Can an animal in heat be spayed, and what risk is involved?
A: A female can be “in heat” or estrus during the surgical procedure. This is done routinely, especially in cats, and while the procedure can be more tedious for the veterinarian there is often no additional risk to the patient. Extra blood loss can be a complication.
Q: Shouldn’t my dog/cat have at least one heat cycle first?
A: This is a commonly debated question in veterinary medicine. While some veterinarians do believe that a single heat cycle releases hormones into the blood stream that are important for maturation of the body, there has been little scientific evidence to suggest that animals neutered before a heat cycle are negatively impacted. We feel that the risks of waiting for sexual maturity far outweigh the benefits.
Q: Why does my vet say that my pet has to be at least 6 months old before having surgery?
A: Veterinarians all have different scientific logic behind their protocols. Some veterinarians have selected 6 months for the above listed rationale. Others believe that an older puppy is stronger and has had a chance to develop immunity to the viruses. These bits of logic are reasonable for most pets but we feel strongly that since pediatric surgeries are not harmful to the pet at all, they should be recommended in most cases.
Q: Is there a licensed veterinarian performing the surgery?
A: There is ALWAYS a licensed veterinarian performing the surgery.
Q: Will my pet be asleep for his/her surgery?
A: All surgical procedures are performed with high quality veterinary care including surgical plane anesthesia. This means all pets are completely “asleep” for the duration of the procedure.
Q: Will my pet have pain meds to take at home after surgery?
A: Most pets are not sent home with pain meds for the owner to administer. HOWEVER, ALL pets are given a post surgical long term pain medicine injection.
Q: Can I give my pet over the counter pain meds?
A: Please never give your pet over the counter medication without consulting a veterinarian. Common medicines like Tylenol can be bad for dogs and deadly for cats.
Reviews
Laura Mcginnis
19 Dec 2017
REPORT
If I could give zero stars I would! Because of the negligence of this horrible place my dog suffered horrible after what was supposed to be a routine spay. She had no water or IV fluids all day and wa...
If I could give zero stars I would! Because of the negligence of this horrible place my dog suffered horrible after what was supposed to be a routine spay. She had no water or IV fluids all day and was under anesthesia entirely too long. She passed away less than 12 hours after we brought her home! Do not trust these people with your pets!!!!!
M D
11 Nov 2017
REPORT
Used to work here many years ago. Not sure if it has changed since then. It is honestly like an assembly line for spays and neuters. The vets were good but the manager was power hungry. More intereste...
Used to work here many years ago. Not sure if it has changed since then. It is honestly like an assembly line for spays and neuters. The vets were good but the manager was power hungry. More interested in wanting to start her own business and made sure she had a paycheck and hours worked weekly rather than to make sure her employees were taken care of. Hired employees and thier spouses who had drug problems to run the clinic while away and pushed good employees away. I never would personally bring my pet here.
Sherry Farmer Reuss
10 Aug 2017
REPORT
This is a great group of caring people and they do a wonderful service for the community by spaying and neutering our precious fur babies. It is also reasonably priced. They really care about the anim...
This is a great group of caring people and they do a wonderful service for the community by spaying and neutering our precious fur babies. It is also reasonably priced. They really care about the animals and you can tell that when you walk in.
Teresa Terry
31 May 2017
REPORT
Always great with my animals! Low cost spay & neuter!
James Yoakley
4 May 2017
REPORT
What a wonderful place that provides an invaluable service to the community. It's so important to have your pet spayed or neutered. No only does it help reduce the overpopulation of unwanted animals, ...
What a wonderful place that provides an invaluable service to the community. It's so important to have your pet spayed or neutered. No only does it help reduce the overpopulation of unwanted animals, but it can extend the life of your pet. These are great people who truly care about animals and their owners.
Bevin Rice
3 May 2017
REPORT
Amazing service and always willing to see complications through to the end. My cat had some major urinary complications after a misdiagnosis at another vet office, which led to some severe pain. The A...
Amazing service and always willing to see complications through to the end. My cat had some major urinary complications after a misdiagnosis at another vet office, which led to some severe pain. The Animal Works staff was great with references and suggestions so that we knew our options well enough to make a clear decision. They kept us well informed throughout the process and during the follow-up afterwards. He has fully recovered and is healthier than ever! Thank you guys!
Bridget Whitley
1 May 2017
REPORT
I just got my 3 year old Australian shepherd neutered on Friday. The very next day his entire scrotal sac was filled with blood, and was so extremely bruised, he rolls over just so I can ice it. I spe...
I just got my 3 year old Australian shepherd neutered on Friday. The very next day his entire scrotal sac was filled with blood, and was so extremely bruised, he rolls over just so I can ice it. I spent most Saturday and Sunday at Midland emergency clinic, that's after I took him to Banfield to see what they said, they told me to rush him as soon as possible. I just moved here and wanted to do it somewhere local, I had no idea however that this place is an assembly line for spay and neuter ( they just go down the line). This was the second dog this week that has came in to the emergency clinic from Animal works screwing up. The emergency clinic told me to take him back there to see if they'll compensate for the emergency bills, but I do not want him anywhere near that place. Beware of this place, I learned my lesson, pay the extra for a real vet!!
Lorettaquiett p
18 Feb 2017
REPORT
Don't ever take an animal here.
Laura McGinnis Mier
16 Dec 2016
REPORT
My poor dog Was spayed yesterday and 10 hours later she passed away. Complete negligence on their part.
Samirah K Jooma
16 Nov 2016
REPORT
Great place, people and service! They are always ready to answer your questions and great to your animals.
Eveanna Brewer
4 Nov 2016
REPORT
We had our first cat neutered here and they took very good care of him and will be returning in 2 weeks to have or kitten spayed. They are friendly and very helpful! Most of all very affordable! I al...
We had our first cat neutered here and they took very good care of him and will be returning in 2 weeks to have or kitten spayed. They are friendly and very helpful! Most of all very affordable! I always recommend them to everyone i know!
Nancy Fraire
4 Nov 2016
REPORT
As a 1st time per owner , i was made to feel at ease leaving my 6 week puppy. And the staff was super insightful and friendly and welcoming! Definitely will recommend to everyone!
Melissa McLaughlin
30 Oct 2016
REPORT
Wonderfully nice and helpful to new pet owners . Easy to get to !
Emmaleigh Camera Travis
15 Oct 2016
REPORT
SO GLAD that places like this exist. AnimalWorks in particular is staffed by super caring, passionate and knowledgable ladies that treat patients like their own pets. It is amazing how hard the direct...
SO GLAD that places like this exist. AnimalWorks in particular is staffed by super caring, passionate and knowledgable ladies that treat patients like their own pets. It is amazing how hard the director works at making sure as many animals as possible are seen and given top notch care, information is shared with clients and the community, and that the place runs in a welcoming and comforting way.
Courtney Marie Tinnel
7 Oct 2016
REPORT
Just have to give huge thank you to all of you guys at animal works! I'm so grateful for each and every one of you and the kindness and care you've given to my pets ! Always thorough and kind and I'm...
Just have to give huge thank you to all of you guys at animal works! I'm so grateful for each and every one of you and the kindness and care you've given to my pets ! Always thorough and kind and I'm very pleased I'm all the time telling friends and family how great you all are ! I picked up my pup yesterday and he's doing great today and recovering well just as all three of my cats did :) thank you and have a blessed day !
Courtney Marie
7 Oct 2016
REPORT
Just have to give huge thank you to all of you guys at animal works! I'm so grateful for each and every one of you and the kindness and care you've given to my pets ! Always thorough and kind and I'm...
Just have to give huge thank you to all of you guys at animal works! I'm so grateful for each and every one of you and the kindness and care you've given to my pets ! Always thorough and kind and I'm very pleased I'm all the time telling friends and family how great you all are ! I picked up my pup yesterday and he's doing great today and recovering well just as all three of my cats did :) thank you and have a blessed day !
Jennifer Nichols
27 Aug 2016
REPORT
Friendly staff that loves your animals as you do. Highly recommend.
Michael Braden
11 Aug 2016
REPORT
Great place for low cost spay or neuter for dogs and cats.
Kayla Michele Swafford
7 Jun 2016
REPORT
I took my dog here to be spayed and have a few shots, as they work with the humane society that I adopted her from--they were extremely kind and her surgery went amazingly well. It's only been a few d...
I took my dog here to be spayed and have a few shots, as they work with the humane society that I adopted her from--they were extremely kind and her surgery went amazingly well. It's only been a few days and she is doing great. Don't let the location fool you, these people care about what they do And they do it well! Thanks so much for the great care of my Yuna!!
Deana Troutt
21 Apr 2016
REPORT
It is a nice place to take ur animals and it's not expensive I like the people there they help me take care of my three dogs and to keep them healthy and living well I love all the people that works t...
It is a nice place to take ur animals and it's not expensive I like the people there they help me take care of my three dogs and to keep them healthy and living well I love all the people that works there they are nice a sweet people
Kelsey Mcclure
7 Dec 2015
REPORT
Always willing to help my pets and offer unbeatable spay/neuter prices. The doctor is very precise although I understand that affordable clinics that have a high turnover are able to keep prices low b...
Always willing to help my pets and offer unbeatable spay/neuter prices. The doctor is very precise although I understand that affordable clinics that have a high turnover are able to keep prices low by doing numerous surgeries a day. If you expect more than that go to a full service clinic. Pleased with my vet care for my kitten and her abscess and vaccines I've received.
Brandon Connelly
19 Nov 2015
REPORT
This place has been nothing short of amazing to us and little Bruce. Everyone is super friendly and just love him here!
Janet P.
7 Nov 2015
REPORT
This organization has been spaying dogs and cats for me for many years. In 2015 a new management team and staff came on board. The doctors are excellent and very caring, the new manager is highly sk...
This organization has been spaying dogs and cats for me for many years. In 2015 a new management team and staff came on board. The doctors are excellent and very caring, the new manager is highly skilled and her prior credentials are very impressive and the technical staff and clerical staff are very caring and truly love the animals left in their care. The prices are affordable and lower cost and no cost is a possibility for those who qualify when grant monies are available. They also provide low cost vaccinations. I strongy recommend this clinic
Amanda Asbury
21 Sep 2015
REPORT
Love this place. They really work with you to help you out with your schedule. Great with the dogs. And their prices are phenomenal. I no longer take our dogs to Young Williams for spay and neuters n...
Love this place. They really work with you to help you out with your schedule. Great with the dogs. And their prices are phenomenal. I no longer take our dogs to Young Williams for spay and neuters now. Love ,love them.
Alesha W.
29 Sep 2014
REPORT
Both my cats went there on different occations & were taken very good care of. I was pleased with the quality of care they recieved & it was very affordable. I disagree with the lady that says it was ...
Both my cats went there on different occations & were taken very good care of. I was pleased with the quality of care they recieved & it was very affordable. I disagree with the lady that says it was 'a ran down shack'. If that were the case I'd never leave my pets there. She also stated she heard the staff cursing at the animals & banging on the kennels... She really left her dog there after she heard that? I don't think so. I would have snatched my dog out of there so quick they wouldn't have known what happened. The staff loved on my cat like he was her own & was very helpful. I do recommend this place as often as I can. Hope this helps.
jenn145
11 Sep 2012
REPORT
I have been there a lot and they are very friendly and educated on what is going on in the clinic.Yes their building is an older one but, I see it as they do not have the expensive building to pay for...
I have been there a lot and they are very friendly and educated on what is going on in the clinic.Yes their building is an older one but, I see it as they do not have the expensive building to pay for so there for they can charge lower prices for your animals to be fixed. If you go to a big fancy office that is what you are paying for. This place is all about the animals. They spay and neuter their animals just like the other places do. The people that usually have nothing else to do but, to bad mouth others its because they are the ones in this case that have not followed the instructions they were given when they went to pick up their animal.When I went to pick up mine they went over every thing with me and told me the do's and don't.
costa2010
23 Mar 2012
REPORT
I took my two dogs there to get neutered. When you first pull up looks like an old ran down shack with a concrete driveway in the back that had been fenced off to board animals. Inside, I asked to s...
I took my two dogs there to get neutered. When you first pull up looks like an old ran down shack with a concrete driveway in the back that had been fenced off to board animals. Inside, I asked to see the facilities and the workers thought I was crazy for asking and gave me some smart remarks while asking questions. The building was not well kept, old and dirty. Looked like an abandoned house that had been retrofitted for a animal clinic. I was very skeptical about the whole place and concerned with my dogs well-beings. Against my better judgement I left them there for the procedure but before I left I could here the workers banging on the crates and cussing the dogs. They do not know how to properly handle animals with proper care and inspection. They also have a bite policy that states with your animal bites them they will hold for 10 days at your expense. With the way I witnessed their care and handling of animals I would not be surprised if they got bitten often. The surgery ended up being ok thus far with no infections but only time will tell. I would not recommend this place to friends or foe. If I could do this all over again I would pay the extra money and take my dogs to their normal vet.
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Animalworks
Alcoa, Tennessee
General Info
AnimalWorks is a low-cost, high volume spay/neuter clinic in Alcoa, TN. We offer vaccinations, testing, and spay/neuter services to anyone within the surrounding areas and rescues. Call today for an appointment and read the Q&A below if you would like more information!
**********************************************************
Q: What is spaying?
A: Spaying is the common name for a procedure called an “ovariohysterectomy”. This is an abdominal surgery in which the uterus and ovaries are removed from the female’s body. This procedure will make her incapable of reproduction and is the common practice to sterilize females.
Q: What is neutering?
A: Neutering is the common name for a procedure called “an orchiectomy”. This is an externeral surgery and does not commonly enter the abdominal cavity although is the case of some cryptorchids with an abdominally retained testicle it might. In this procedure both testicles are removed from the male’s body making him sterile and removing him from the gene pool.
Q: Will the surgery hurt my pet?
A: It is a surgical procedure so some pain and inflammation is common. The surgery itself is done with the pet asleep under general anesthesia where they cannot feel a thing. Pain medicines are given after surgery that can give the pet pain relief for up to 36hrs after surgery depending on their metabolism.
Q: Will my pet gain weight after surgery?
A: It is common for a pet’s metabolism to slow down a bit after surgery. It is possible, however, to maintain your pet at a healthy body weight by adjusting the pet’s food intake. It is possible to keep your pet healthy regardless of their reproductive status.
Q: Will it change my pet’s personality?
A: Surgery should not alter your pet’s friendly or exuberant behavior. At most you should see a decrease in undesirable behaviors like house marking, aggression, escape/roaming and courting behaviors especially in male dogs.
Q: How long is recovery?
A: Animals are remarkable in their ability to recover from major surgery. This same set of surgeries, when done in humans, can put someone out of work for 6wks or more. For our pets, recovery sees them back to eating and acting almost normally within 48-72hrs and totally back to their normal self in 5 days. Full healing for the incision and surgical sites can take one week for the superficial layers to several months for the deeper tissue. Complications can postpone healing, of course.
Q: Shouldn’t my dog/cat have a litter first?
A: This is an old wive’s tale. It was once believed that allowing a female animal to have a litter before being spayed was good for her body. Studies have since been done that indicate that the greater the number of litters and heat cycles that a female dog goes through before she is spayed substantially increases her risk of severe health problems like mammary cancer and pyometra. Having a female dog spayed prior to her first birthday can substantially increase her lifespan.
Q: How old do they need to be?
A: Different vets recommend different ages for spay and neuter. Here at AnimalWorks we have successfully practiced “pediatric alters” meaning that we routinely neuter and spay animals at 8wks. Our guidelines are that your pet must be 8wks and 2lbs or more to be fixed here. We believe that the surgery is easier on the pet at this time when they are still small and resilient both mentally and physically. We also believe that it helps to create a pet who is never distracted by reproduction hormones and can have a stronger lasting bond with their owners. Lastly, it prevents accidental unwanted litters by dogs/cats who reach maturity before the norm and before their owners realize it they have a puppy having puppies!
Q: Can a pregnant animal be spayed, and what risk is involved?
A: A pregnant animal can be spayed at the discretion of the veterinarian performing the surgery. There are greater anesthetic risks as well as risk of incision complications, however, this surgery has been performed regularly here at AnimalWorks with great success and is often better for the female in the long run. Rarely, a dog may have a “pseudocyesis” experience after surgery meaning that, due to the hormones involved, they actually feel they have had a litter and might experience lactation, nesting, and mothering (which can include children, other family pets, or inanimate objects.)
Q: Can an animal in heat be spayed, and what risk is involved?
A: A female can be “in heat” or estrus during the surgical procedure. This is done routinely, especially in cats, and while the procedure can be more tedious for the veterinarian there is often no additional risk to the patient. Extra blood loss can be a complication.
Q: Shouldn’t my dog/cat have at least one heat cycle first?
A: This is a commonly debated question in veterinary medicine. While some veterinarians do believe that a single heat cycle releases hormones into the blood stream that are important for maturation of the body, there has been little scientific evidence to suggest that animals neutered before a heat cycle are negatively impacted. We feel that the risks of waiting for sexual maturity far outweigh the benefits.
Q: Why does my vet say that my pet has to be at least 6 months old before having surgery?
A: Veterinarians all have different scientific logic behind their protocols. Some veterinarians have selected 6 months for the above listed rationale. Others believe that an older puppy is stronger and has had a chance to develop immunity to the viruses. These bits of logic are reasonable for most pets but we feel strongly that since pediatric surgeries are not harmful to the pet at all, they should be recommended in most cases.
Q: Is there a licensed veterinarian performing the surgery?
A: There is ALWAYS a licensed veterinarian performing the surgery.
Q: Will my pet be asleep for his/her surgery?
A: All surgical procedures are performed with high quality veterinary care including surgical plane anesthesia. This means all pets are completely “asleep” for the duration of the procedure.
Q: Will my pet have pain meds to take at home after surgery?
A: Most pets are not sent home with pain meds for the owner to administer. HOWEVER, ALL pets are given a post surgical long term pain medicine injection.
Q: Can I give my pet over the counter pain meds?
A: Please never give your pet over the counter medication without consulting a veterinarian. Common medicines like Tylenol can be bad for dogs and deadly for cats.
**********************************************************
Q: What is spaying?
A: Spaying is the common name for a procedure called an “ovariohysterectomy”. This is an abdominal surgery in which the uterus and ovaries are removed from the female’s body. This procedure will make her incapable of reproduction and is the common practice to sterilize females.
Q: What is neutering?
A: Neutering is the common name for a procedure called “an orchiectomy”. This is an externeral surgery and does not commonly enter the abdominal cavity although is the case of some cryptorchids with an abdominally retained testicle it might. In this procedure both testicles are removed from the male’s body making him sterile and removing him from the gene pool.
Q: Will the surgery hurt my pet?
A: It is a surgical procedure so some pain and inflammation is common. The surgery itself is done with the pet asleep under general anesthesia where they cannot feel a thing. Pain medicines are given after surgery that can give the pet pain relief for up to 36hrs after surgery depending on their metabolism.
Q: Will my pet gain weight after surgery?
A: It is common for a pet’s metabolism to slow down a bit after surgery. It is possible, however, to maintain your pet at a healthy body weight by adjusting the pet’s food intake. It is possible to keep your pet healthy regardless of their reproductive status.
Q: Will it change my pet’s personality?
A: Surgery should not alter your pet’s friendly or exuberant behavior. At most you should see a decrease in undesirable behaviors like house marking, aggression, escape/roaming and courting behaviors especially in male dogs.
Q: How long is recovery?
A: Animals are remarkable in their ability to recover from major surgery. This same set of surgeries, when done in humans, can put someone out of work for 6wks or more. For our pets, recovery sees them back to eating and acting almost normally within 48-72hrs and totally back to their normal self in 5 days. Full healing for the incision and surgical sites can take one week for the superficial layers to several months for the deeper tissue. Complications can postpone healing, of course.
Q: Shouldn’t my dog/cat have a litter first?
A: This is an old wive’s tale. It was once believed that allowing a female animal to have a litter before being spayed was good for her body. Studies have since been done that indicate that the greater the number of litters and heat cycles that a female dog goes through before she is spayed substantially increases her risk of severe health problems like mammary cancer and pyometra. Having a female dog spayed prior to her first birthday can substantially increase her lifespan.
Q: How old do they need to be?
A: Different vets recommend different ages for spay and neuter. Here at AnimalWorks we have successfully practiced “pediatric alters” meaning that we routinely neuter and spay animals at 8wks. Our guidelines are that your pet must be 8wks and 2lbs or more to be fixed here. We believe that the surgery is easier on the pet at this time when they are still small and resilient both mentally and physically. We also believe that it helps to create a pet who is never distracted by reproduction hormones and can have a stronger lasting bond with their owners. Lastly, it prevents accidental unwanted litters by dogs/cats who reach maturity before the norm and before their owners realize it they have a puppy having puppies!
Q: Can a pregnant animal be spayed, and what risk is involved?
A: A pregnant animal can be spayed at the discretion of the veterinarian performing the surgery. There are greater anesthetic risks as well as risk of incision complications, however, this surgery has been performed regularly here at AnimalWorks with great success and is often better for the female in the long run. Rarely, a dog may have a “pseudocyesis” experience after surgery meaning that, due to the hormones involved, they actually feel they have had a litter and might experience lactation, nesting, and mothering (which can include children, other family pets, or inanimate objects.)
Q: Can an animal in heat be spayed, and what risk is involved?
A: A female can be “in heat” or estrus during the surgical procedure. This is done routinely, especially in cats, and while the procedure can be more tedious for the veterinarian there is often no additional risk to the patient. Extra blood loss can be a complication.
Q: Shouldn’t my dog/cat have at least one heat cycle first?
A: This is a commonly debated question in veterinary medicine. While some veterinarians do believe that a single heat cycle releases hormones into the blood stream that are important for maturation of the body, there has been little scientific evidence to suggest that animals neutered before a heat cycle are negatively impacted. We feel that the risks of waiting for sexual maturity far outweigh the benefits.
Q: Why does my vet say that my pet has to be at least 6 months old before having surgery?
A: Veterinarians all have different scientific logic behind their protocols. Some veterinarians have selected 6 months for the above listed rationale. Others believe that an older puppy is stronger and has had a chance to develop immunity to the viruses. These bits of logic are reasonable for most pets but we feel strongly that since pediatric surgeries are not harmful to the pet at all, they should be recommended in most cases.
Q: Is there a licensed veterinarian performing the surgery?
A: There is ALWAYS a licensed veterinarian performing the surgery.
Q: Will my pet be asleep for his/her surgery?
A: All surgical procedures are performed with high quality veterinary care including surgical plane anesthesia. This means all pets are completely “asleep” for the duration of the procedure.
Q: Will my pet have pain meds to take at home after surgery?
A: Most pets are not sent home with pain meds for the owner to administer. HOWEVER, ALL pets are given a post surgical long term pain medicine injection.
Q: Can I give my pet over the counter pain meds?
A: Please never give your pet over the counter medication without consulting a veterinarian. Common medicines like Tylenol can be bad for dogs and deadly for cats.
Business Hours
Monday
08:00AM-18:00PM
Tuesday
08:00AM-18:00PM
Wednesday
08:00AM-18:00PM
Thursday
08:00AM-18:00PM
Friday
08:00AM-18:00PM
Reviews
Laura Mcginnis
19 Dec 2017
If I could give zero stars I would! Because of the negligence of this horrible place my dog suffered horrible after what was supposed to be a routine spay. She had no water or IV fluids all day and wa...
If I could give zero stars I would! Because of the negligence of this horrible place my dog suffered horrible after what was supposed to be a routine spay. She had no water or IV fluids all day and was under anesthesia entirely too long. She passed away less than 12 hours after we brought her home! Do not trust these people with your pets!!!!!
M D
11 Nov 2017
Used to work here many years ago. Not sure if it has changed since then. It is honestly like an assembly line for spays and neuters. The vets were good but the manager was power hungry. More intereste...
Used to work here many years ago. Not sure if it has changed since then. It is honestly like an assembly line for spays and neuters. The vets were good but the manager was power hungry. More interested in wanting to start her own business and made sure she had a paycheck and hours worked weekly rather than to make sure her employees were taken care of. Hired employees and thier spouses who had drug problems to run the clinic while away and pushed good employees away. I never would personally bring my pet here.
Sherry Farmer Reuss
10 Aug 2017
This is a great group of caring people and they do a wonderful service for the community by spaying and neutering our precious fur babies. It is also reasonably priced. They really care about the anim...
This is a great group of caring people and they do a wonderful service for the community by spaying and neutering our precious fur babies. It is also reasonably priced. They really care about the animals and you can tell that when you walk in.
Teresa Terry
31 May 2017
Always great with my animals! Low cost spay & neuter!
James Yoakley
4 May 2017
What a wonderful place that provides an invaluable service to the community. It's so important to have your pet spayed or neutered. No only does it help reduce the overpopulation of unwanted animals, ...
What a wonderful place that provides an invaluable service to the community. It's so important to have your pet spayed or neutered. No only does it help reduce the overpopulation of unwanted animals, but it can extend the life of your pet. These are great people who truly care about animals and their owners.
Bevin Rice
3 May 2017
Amazing service and always willing to see complications through to the end. My cat had some major urinary complications after a misdiagnosis at another vet office, which led to some severe pain. The A...
Amazing service and always willing to see complications through to the end. My cat had some major urinary complications after a misdiagnosis at another vet office, which led to some severe pain. The Animal Works staff was great with references and suggestions so that we knew our options well enough to make a clear decision. They kept us well informed throughout the process and during the follow-up afterwards. He has fully recovered and is healthier than ever! Thank you guys!
Bridget Whitley
1 May 2017
I just got my 3 year old Australian shepherd neutered on Friday. The very next day his entire scrotal sac was filled with blood, and was so extremely bruised, he rolls over just so I can ice it. I spe...
I just got my 3 year old Australian shepherd neutered on Friday. The very next day his entire scrotal sac was filled with blood, and was so extremely bruised, he rolls over just so I can ice it. I spent most Saturday and Sunday at Midland emergency clinic, that's after I took him to Banfield to see what they said, they told me to rush him as soon as possible. I just moved here and wanted to do it somewhere local, I had no idea however that this place is an assembly line for spay and neuter ( they just go down the line). This was the second dog this week that has came in to the emergency clinic from Animal works screwing up. The emergency clinic told me to take him back there to see if they'll compensate for the emergency bills, but I do not want him anywhere near that place. Beware of this place, I learned my lesson, pay the extra for a real vet!!
Lorettaquiett p
18 Feb 2017
Don't ever take an animal here.
Laura McGinnis Mier
16 Dec 2016
My poor dog Was spayed yesterday and 10 hours later she passed away. Complete negligence on their part.
Samirah K Jooma
16 Nov 2016
Great place, people and service! They are always ready to answer your questions and great to your animals.
Eveanna Brewer
4 Nov 2016
We had our first cat neutered here and they took very good care of him and will be returning in 2 weeks to have or kitten spayed. They are friendly and very helpful! Most of all very affordable! I al...
We had our first cat neutered here and they took very good care of him and will be returning in 2 weeks to have or kitten spayed. They are friendly and very helpful! Most of all very affordable! I always recommend them to everyone i know!
Nancy Fraire
4 Nov 2016
As a 1st time per owner , i was made to feel at ease leaving my 6 week puppy. And the staff was super insightful and friendly and welcoming! Definitely will recommend to everyone!
Melissa McLaughlin
30 Oct 2016
Wonderfully nice and helpful to new pet owners . Easy to get to !
Emmaleigh Camera Travis
15 Oct 2016
SO GLAD that places like this exist. AnimalWorks in particular is staffed by super caring, passionate and knowledgable ladies that treat patients like their own pets. It is amazing how hard the direct...
SO GLAD that places like this exist. AnimalWorks in particular is staffed by super caring, passionate and knowledgable ladies that treat patients like their own pets. It is amazing how hard the director works at making sure as many animals as possible are seen and given top notch care, information is shared with clients and the community, and that the place runs in a welcoming and comforting way.
Courtney Marie Tinnel
7 Oct 2016
Just have to give huge thank you to all of you guys at animal works! I'm so grateful for each and every one of you and the kindness and care you've given to my pets ! Always thorough and kind and I'm...
Just have to give huge thank you to all of you guys at animal works! I'm so grateful for each and every one of you and the kindness and care you've given to my pets ! Always thorough and kind and I'm very pleased I'm all the time telling friends and family how great you all are ! I picked up my pup yesterday and he's doing great today and recovering well just as all three of my cats did :) thank you and have a blessed day !
Courtney Marie
7 Oct 2016
Just have to give huge thank you to all of you guys at animal works! I'm so grateful for each and every one of you and the kindness and care you've given to my pets ! Always thorough and kind and I'm...
Just have to give huge thank you to all of you guys at animal works! I'm so grateful for each and every one of you and the kindness and care you've given to my pets ! Always thorough and kind and I'm very pleased I'm all the time telling friends and family how great you all are ! I picked up my pup yesterday and he's doing great today and recovering well just as all three of my cats did :) thank you and have a blessed day !
Jennifer Nichols
27 Aug 2016
Friendly staff that loves your animals as you do. Highly recommend.
Michael Braden
11 Aug 2016
Great place for low cost spay or neuter for dogs and cats.
Kayla Michele Swafford
7 Jun 2016
I took my dog here to be spayed and have a few shots, as they work with the humane society that I adopted her from--they were extremely kind and her surgery went amazingly well. It's only been a few d...
I took my dog here to be spayed and have a few shots, as they work with the humane society that I adopted her from--they were extremely kind and her surgery went amazingly well. It's only been a few days and she is doing great. Don't let the location fool you, these people care about what they do And they do it well! Thanks so much for the great care of my Yuna!!
Deana Troutt
21 Apr 2016
It is a nice place to take ur animals and it's not expensive I like the people there they help me take care of my three dogs and to keep them healthy and living well I love all the people that works t...
It is a nice place to take ur animals and it's not expensive I like the people there they help me take care of my three dogs and to keep them healthy and living well I love all the people that works there they are nice a sweet people
Kelsey Mcclure
7 Dec 2015
Always willing to help my pets and offer unbeatable spay/neuter prices. The doctor is very precise although I understand that affordable clinics that have a high turnover are able to keep prices low b...
Always willing to help my pets and offer unbeatable spay/neuter prices. The doctor is very precise although I understand that affordable clinics that have a high turnover are able to keep prices low by doing numerous surgeries a day. If you expect more than that go to a full service clinic. Pleased with my vet care for my kitten and her abscess and vaccines I've received.
Brandon Connelly
19 Nov 2015
This place has been nothing short of amazing to us and little Bruce. Everyone is super friendly and just love him here!
Janet P.
7 Nov 2015
This organization has been spaying dogs and cats for me for many years. In 2015 a new management team and staff came on board. The doctors are excellent and very caring, the new manager is highly sk...
This organization has been spaying dogs and cats for me for many years. In 2015 a new management team and staff came on board. The doctors are excellent and very caring, the new manager is highly skilled and her prior credentials are very impressive and the technical staff and clerical staff are very caring and truly love the animals left in their care. The prices are affordable and lower cost and no cost is a possibility for those who qualify when grant monies are available. They also provide low cost vaccinations. I strongy recommend this clinic
Amanda Asbury
21 Sep 2015
Love this place. They really work with you to help you out with your schedule. Great with the dogs. And their prices are phenomenal. I no longer take our dogs to Young Williams for spay and neuters n...
Love this place. They really work with you to help you out with your schedule. Great with the dogs. And their prices are phenomenal. I no longer take our dogs to Young Williams for spay and neuters now. Love ,love them.
Alesha W.
29 Sep 2014
Both my cats went there on different occations & were taken very good care of. I was pleased with the quality of care they recieved & it was very affordable. I disagree with the lady that says it was ...
Both my cats went there on different occations & were taken very good care of. I was pleased with the quality of care they recieved & it was very affordable. I disagree with the lady that says it was 'a ran down shack'. If that were the case I'd never leave my pets there. She also stated she heard the staff cursing at the animals & banging on the kennels... She really left her dog there after she heard that? I don't think so. I would have snatched my dog out of there so quick they wouldn't have known what happened. The staff loved on my cat like he was her own & was very helpful. I do recommend this place as often as I can. Hope this helps.
jenn145
11 Sep 2012
I have been there a lot and they are very friendly and educated on what is going on in the clinic.Yes their building is an older one but, I see it as they do not have the expensive building to pay for...
I have been there a lot and they are very friendly and educated on what is going on in the clinic.Yes their building is an older one but, I see it as they do not have the expensive building to pay for so there for they can charge lower prices for your animals to be fixed. If you go to a big fancy office that is what you are paying for. This place is all about the animals. They spay and neuter their animals just like the other places do. The people that usually have nothing else to do but, to bad mouth others its because they are the ones in this case that have not followed the instructions they were given when they went to pick up their animal.When I went to pick up mine they went over every thing with me and told me the do's and don't.
costa2010
23 Mar 2012
I took my two dogs there to get neutered. When you first pull up looks like an old ran down shack with a concrete driveway in the back that had been fenced off to board animals. Inside, I asked to s...
I took my two dogs there to get neutered. When you first pull up looks like an old ran down shack with a concrete driveway in the back that had been fenced off to board animals. Inside, I asked to see the facilities and the workers thought I was crazy for asking and gave me some smart remarks while asking questions. The building was not well kept, old and dirty. Looked like an abandoned house that had been retrofitted for a animal clinic. I was very skeptical about the whole place and concerned with my dogs well-beings. Against my better judgement I left them there for the procedure but before I left I could here the workers banging on the crates and cussing the dogs. They do not know how to properly handle animals with proper care and inspection. They also have a bite policy that states with your animal bites them they will hold for 10 days at your expense. With the way I witnessed their care and handling of animals I would not be surprised if they got bitten often. The surgery ended up being ok thus far with no infections but only time will tell. I would not recommend this place to friends or foe. If I could do this all over again I would pay the extra money and take my dogs to their normal vet.
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