As a dog owner in Texas, you may have found yourself searching on Google for “How much does it cost to neuter a female dog in Texas?”
It’s a common misconception, but let’s clear things up real fast: female dogs are spayed, while male dogs are neutered.
But don’t worry; the differences can be confusing, and both procedures are crucial for pet population control and your dog’s health. So, how much does it cost to spay a female dog – and how can you ensure that you’ve chosen the best option in your area?
Let’s break down the costs of spaying a female dog in Texas, why it’s so important, and how you can access affordable spay services through the Texas Coalition for Animal Protection (TCAP).
Spaying vs. Neutering: What’s The Difference?
It’s easy to confuse spaying and neutering – after all, both are trying to accomplish a similar goal. Before we look at the cost, let’s clarify the terminology:
Spaying is for female dogs. It involves removing the ovaries and usually the uterus.
Neutering is for male dogs. It involves removing the testicles, and preventing the dog from reproducing.
Both procedures prevent unwanted pregnancies and offer significant health benefits, including reducing the risk of certain cancers and extending your pet’s lifespan by 3-5 years. Plus, they can help to tone down the hormone-fueled behaviors like aggression and roaming.
The Cost of Spaying a Female Dog in Texas
The cost to spay a dog in Texas can vary widely, typically ranging from $50 to $500. Here’s a breakdown of what you might expect to pay:
Low-cost clinics: $50-$150
Humane societies: $50-$200
Private veterinarians: $200-$500
However, at TCAP, we offer even more affordable options to ensure every pet owner can access this crucial service.
TCAP’s Affordable Spay Services
At TCAP, we believe that cost should never be a barrier to responsible pet ownership. That’s why we offer some of the most competitive prices for spay services in Texas:
- Dogs 2 lbs – 49 lbs: $55
- Dogs 50 lbs – 79 lbs: $65
For puppies, we offer an exceptional value with our Puppy Spay/Neuter & Vaccine Wellness Package for just $150. This comprehensive package includes:
- Three vaccine visits
- Spay/neuter surgery
- Post-surgery pain medication
- A cone
- A microchip
- A free gift
This package must be purchased before your pet is 4 months old and used before they’re 7 months old, making it an excellent option for new puppy owners.
What Factors Affect the Cost of Spaying?
Spaying can vary depending on the age and size of your pet, as well as their overall health and any pre-existing conditions. Here are some of the factors we consider before we give you an estimate for a neuter or spay service:
- Dog’s size: Larger dogs may cost more due to increased anesthesia needs.
- Dog’s age: Older dogs might require additional pre-surgery tests.
- Location: Prices can vary depending on where you live in Texas.
- Facility type: Private vets often charge more than low-cost clinics like TCAP.
- Any additional services: Some packages include extras like pain medication or post-op check-ups.
At TCAP, we’re transparent about any additional fees. For example, we offer:
- 24-Hour Pain Injection: $10
- Pain Med Combo (injection + take-home meds): $15
- E-Collar/Cone (included for males): $10
- Antibiotics: $15
Why is Spaying Important?
Spaying your female dog isn’t just about preventing unwanted puppies. It also helps prevent certain health issues:
Reduces the risk of mammary tumors and uterine infections
Eliminates the mess and discomfort of heat cycles
Can lead to a longer, healthier life for your pet
Helps control the pet population in Texas
Did you know that approximately 125,000 cats and dogs are euthanized in Texas shelters every year? By spaying your female dog, you’re directly contributing to reducing this number and saving lives.
Spaying and Canine Distemper Prevention
While spaying doesn’t directly prevent canine distemper, it’s an excellent opportunity to discuss overall health with your vet.
Canine distemper is a serious viral illness that can be prevented through vaccination. At TCAP, we offer affordable vaccination packages alongside our spay services, allowing you to protect your dog against distemper and other diseases while getting her spayed.
Our wellness options include:
- Rabies Vaccine: $5
- Basic Full Set of Vaccines: $25
- Heartworm Test: $20
- Microchip w/ Surgery: $20
Preparing for Your Dog’s Spay Surgery at TCAP
Once you’ve scheduled your dog’s spay surgery at TCAP, you may be wondering how best to help them (and maybe yourself) prepare for the experience. Here’s some information that can help you prepare for the best spay or neuter service!
- Drop-off is between 8 a.m. and 9 a.m., and pick-up is at 3 p.m.
- Your pet should not have any food or water after 10 p.m. the night before surgery.
- Pets must be at least 10 weeks old but younger than 5 years old to qualify for TCAP’s sterilization program.
- Your dog must weigh at least 2 lbs but not more than 79.9 lbs.
- All pets must have written proof of a current rabies vaccine or receive the vaccine at the time of surgery for an additional $5.
- After surgery, follow these tips for a smooth recovery:
- Prepare a quiet, comfortable recovery space at home.
- Use the provided Elizabethian collar (cone) to prevent licking of the surgical site.
- Plan to limit your dog’s activity for 10-14 days post-surgery.
- Follow all post-operative care instructions provided by TCAP staff.
TCAP Locations in Texas
We believe that spay and neuter services should be accessible to everyone. That’s why TCAP offers convenient locations throughout the Dallas-Fort Worth area:
We also offer remote shelter spay and transport locations in Azle, Cleburne, Granbury, and Hillsboro.
Trust TCAP for Your Dog’s Spay Surgery
Spaying your female dog in Texas is a crucial decision that doesn’t have to break the bank. With TCAP’s affordable options starting from just $55, there’s a solution for every budget..
Whether you choose TCAP’s Puppy Wellness Package or a standard spay surgery, the most important thing is getting your female dog spayed. It’s a simple procedure that can have a big impact on your dog’s health and happiness, as well as the broader community of pets in Texas.
For more information on TCAP’s low-cost spay services in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, or to learn about other essential health services like distemper vaccination, visit our website or contact us today. Let’s work together to keep Texas dogs healthy, happy, and to reduce pet overpopulation in our great state!
Remember, at TCAP, we believe in “Lowest Cost, Best Care.” Schedule your dog’s spay appointment today and join us in our mission to improve animal welfare in Texas, one pet at a time.