SPAY & NEUTER CLINIC | FAQ
Do I need to make an appointment to have my pet spayed or neutered?
Yes! Surgery is performed Monday–Thursday, and pets are dropped off at 8:00 am. Pick-up for surgeries performed Monday–Thursday is at 7:30 am the following morning. Pets must be at least 8 weeks old and weigh at least 2 pounds in order to be eligible for surgery. Call 253.627.SPAY to make an appointment!
How old does my puppy or kitten have to be to be spayed or neutered?
Coalition: HUMAnE supports early age spay and neuter and spays and neuters puppies and kittens as long as they are at least 8 weeks old and weigh at least 2 pounds. However, we recommend that your puppy or kitten have shots before being spayed or neutered.
When should my puppy or kitten be vaccinated?
Vaccines should begin at 6 weeks of age and every 3 weeks thereafter until the puppy or kitten is 16 weeks old.
I don’t know the vaccine history of my adult dog. Which vaccines does he/she need?
Coalition: HUMAnE recommends a Parvo/Distemper combination vaccine for all dogs, and the rabies vaccine.
I don’t know the vaccine history of my adult cat. Which vaccines does he/she need?
Coalition: HUMAnE recommends a rabies vaccine and a feline upper respiratory (FVRCP) vaccine for all cats.
My cat is an inside cat. Does he/she still need to be vaccinated?
Yes! If your cat should ever escape or you decide to add a new cat to your home, it is extremely important that your cat be vaccinated. Certain feline illnesses are not curable, but can be prevented with vaccines.
Does my cat need a Feline Leukemia test before getting vaccinated for this disease?
Feline Leukemia testing is strongly recommended before vaccination for this disease.
Why should my cat be vaccinated for rabies?
Cats are natural predators. Outdoor cats, especially, may be more susceptible to rabies since they are more likely to come in contact with squirrels, bats, mice, etc. These small animals are among the most common carriers of the disease.
Should I get a 1-year or 3-year rabies vaccination?
You may only get a 3-year vaccination if you have proof of current rabies vaccination (a rabies certificate) for your pet.
Does the clinic accept feral cats?
Yes. Coalition: HUMAnE actively supports the “trap-neuter-return” (TNR) approach to dealing humanely with colonies of wild cats who are not adoptable. For more information, see our Project Catnip page.
Do I have to live in Tacoma or Pierce County to use the clinic?
No, there are no residency restrictions—you can live anywhere!
Do pet cats and dogs need to be licensed to be altered?
No. The clinic is not part of an animal control agency and licensing is not required to use its services.
How can I help support Coalition: HUMAnE?
If you would like to make a donation to Coalition: HUMAnE please contact us at: 253.627.SPAY or info@coalitionhumane.org.
Pre-Op Instructions:
- Drop-off time at the clinic is 8:00 a.m. Pick-up time is the following morning (Tuesday–Friday) at 7:30 a.m. (There may be an additional charge for late pick-up.)
- All cats must come in a carrier, with newspaper or a towel. Cardboard carriers may be purchased for $5.00 at the clinic.
- Feral cats must be brought in a humane trap that is covered with a sheet or towel.
- All dogs must be on a leash or in a carrier.
- Please leave your pet(s) in your vehicle until after you have completed the admission process.
- Do not give your pet food after midnight the night before surgery, a little water is okay. Please make sure that your pet is kept confined (or inside) to ensure that it DOES NOT EAT ANYTHING!
- Animals must be in good health and not overweight. If your pet is showing any signs of illness such as coughing, sneezing, runny eyes, or diarrhea it will be declined for surgery.
- Please bring with you any vouchers or certificates from animal shelters or humane groups.
- If your pet is unable to be safely handled by our staff, s/he may be declined for surgery.
- We accept cash, debit and credit only. Payment is due upon pick-up of your pet(s).
Post-Op Instructions:
- Restrict your pet’s activity 7-10 days, no running, jumping, or bathing. Keep your pet in a clean, dry environment during this time.
- Check the incision twice a day for redness, swelling, or discharge; if you find any please contact us.
- Your pet will have a small green tattoo near the incision. (This is not an additional incision.)
- Do not change your pet’s diet during recovery time.
- There are stitches under the skin that do not need to be removed. In addition, there is a bluish green, water-soluble tissue glue that will come off with time.
- Any special needs for your pet will be written on the go home sheet.
- If your pet received any vaccines or other services they will be marked on the go home sheet with rabies tag & certificate attached.
- Please call our clinic if you have any questions or concerns about your pet that is related to the surgery.
- If you have an emergency after hours please contact your regular vet and/or call the Animal Emergency Clinic at 253.474.0791.
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