Gary Block: Hi! I am Dr. Gary Block, and I am with the Humane Society Veterinary Medical Association and also Co-owner of Ocean State Veterinary Specialists in East Greenwich Island. Today I am discussing where you can get your pets spayed or neutered.

You may have your pets spayed or neutered by your veterinarian. If cost is a concern, many communities have reduced or low costs spay and neuter services available through organization such as the Local Humane Society or SPCA. Your veterinarian may even participate in a reduced cost program. No matter which option you choose a veterinarian will be performing the procedure.

Many states have a state-wide referral service to help you find the right spay and neuter provider for you. These can be found easily by looking in the phonebook or doing an online search using terms like spay Texas or spay Alabama. You can also locate a provider by visiting humanesociety.

org/spayneuter.

The first step to get your pet spayed or neutered is to schedule an appointment which can be done by contacting the clinic of your choice. When you schedule your appointment you will receive instructions for how to prepare. These instructions commonly include with holding food for a period of time prior to the surgery and other specific directions pertaining to the process in place.

For this procedure, it is common for pets to be dropped off in the morning and picked up in the late afternoon or evening. When you drop your pet off you'll probably be asked to fill out paper work regarding your pet's medical history. Be sure to bring his or her medical records such as vaccination history and previous veterinary visits.

Don't hesitate to ask about the details of the day, such as any pre-surgical prep-work, what time your pet's surgery may be scheduled for, and how she or he will be monitored following surgery. Instructions will also include a pick up time. When you pick your pet up you'll receive guidelines and caring for your pet, once you bring him or her home.