Justine Johnson: Hello! I am Dr. Justine Johnson. I am a member of the Humane Society Veterinary Medical Association as well as the co-owner of Ocean State Veterinary Specialists; a referral and emergency clinic in East Greenwich, Rhode Island.

Today, I am going to discuss what happens when you pick up your pet after having a spay or neuter surgery. Usually, you will be able to pick up your pet the same day that the procedure is done, either later in the afternoon or early evening. Your pet may still be groggy while recovering from anesthesia and may need to be carried to the car even into your home.

When you arrive home, it's important that your pet be able to rest comfortably in the recovery area you set up while she or he was at the vet clinic. Your pet will likely be a little drowsy or sleepy from the anesthesia for several hours but will be awake and able to stand.

Make sure that water is available when you bring your pet home but your pet likely will not be hungry. Wait until the evening until he or she is fully alert and can stand normally before you offer a little bit of wet food. If your pet eats it, you can give them a little bit more but not the full amount that you normally feed as it might make your pet sick. Your pet should be back to normal within 24-48 hours. So that's what to expect when you pick your pet up from the clinic after a spay or neuter procedure.