Many pet parents have questions about spaying, neutering, and microchipping—and for good reason. These are big decisions that directly affect our pets’ long-term health and wellbeing. At Valley Humane Society, we’re here to guide you with helpful clarity and compassionate expert care. 

At Valley Humane Society’s Phil Scholz Veterinary Surgery Center, we provide affordable spay and neuter surgeries for cats and dogs, along with microchipping and vaccinations for spay/neuter clients. For a limited time during the month of June 2025, we’re offering microchipping for just $5 (a $20 savings) with any scheduled spay or neuter procedure. 

Let’s break down why these simple procedures are so powerful—and address some of the common myths that may be holding you back. 

Spay and Neuter: What You Should Know 

Myth: Spaying or neutering will change my pet’s personality or make them lazy. 

Fact: Spaying and neutering do not alter your pet’s core personality or energy level. Pets may become less driven by reproductive hormones, which can reduce certain behaviors like roaming or marking, but they’ll remain the same playful, affectionate companions you know and love. 

Myth: My female pet should go through one heat cycle or have one litter before being spayed. 

Fact: The safest and healthiest choice is to spay before the first heat, typically around 5–6 months of age. This significantly reduces the risk of mammary tumors and eliminates the risk of pyometra, a potentially life-threatening uterine infection. 

Benefits of Spay/Neuter:

• Helps prevent costly uterine infections and reduces the risk of mammary gland tumors in females, especially when done early.
• Eliminates the risk of testicular cancer and reduces prostate issues in males.
• Can decrease behaviors like roaming, yowling, spraying, and aggression associated with mating instincts.
• Reduces the number of unwanted litters, which helps prevent animal overpopulation and overcrowded shelters. 

Why Microchipping Matters 

Myth: Microchips act like GPS trackers. 

Fact: Microchips do not track your pet’s location. They store a unique ID number that can be read by a scanner at a shelter or veterinary clinic, allowing staff to access your contact information through a secure database. 

Myth: Microchipping is painful or risky. 

Fact: Microchipping is a quick, safe procedure with minimal discomfort—comparable to a routine vaccination. It does not require anesthesia and is well tolerated by both cats and dogs. 

Benefits of Microchipping:

• Provides a more secure identification tha Than a collar and tag.
• Increases the likelihood of being reunited with your pet if they become lost.
• Requires only a one-time procedure and can last a long time.
• Works in combination with ID tags and collars for the best protection. 

Supportive, Affordable Veterinary Care 

At Valley Humane’s Phil Scholz Veterinary Surgery Center, we’re committed to making spay/neuter surgeries accessible for all pet guardians in our community. Our team is here to support you with skill and compassion. 

If cost is a concern, we understand. That’s why we offer payment plans and financial assistance for qualifying households—because every pet deserves a healthy start. Contact us to learn more. 

Special June Promotion: Microchip for Just $5 

For the entire month of June, get your pet microchipped for only $5 when you schedule a spay or neuter surgery through Valley Humane Society. This limited-time promotion is a $20 savings and an easy way to help protect your pet for life. 

Schedule An Appointment Today 

Act now! A safer, healthier, happier life for your pet is just one appointment away. Visit https://valleyhumane.org/surgery-center/, call (925) 426-8656, or email clinic@valleyhumane.org to book your pet’s surgery or learn more about available financial support. 

At Valley Humane Society, we’re here to be your partner in responsible, compassionate pet care, which starts with spay/neuter, microchips, and essential vaccines.