What Really Happens on Spay/Neuter Day: A Dog’s-Eye View

Jul 13

Hi. My name is Moose.
I’m a five month old border collie mix with a nose for balls and a deep mistrust of vacuum cleaners. I recently went on a mysterious car ride that turned out to be my… well… “snip day.” My human calls it “getting neutered.” I call it The Day I Slept Through Everything.

Since I know a lot of dogs (and their humans) get nervous about this whole spay/neuter thing, I thought I’d walk you through it—from my side of the leash.

The Drop-Off

We arrived at the clinic bright and early. I thought we were going to the park. Rude awakening. But the people inside were really nice. They talked softly, rubbed behind my ears, and gave my human a bunch of papers. I could tell my human was a little worried, but the vet tech said something about “routine procedure” and “lots of comfy blankets.” That seemed to help.

They gave me a kennel with my name on it. It smelled like peanut butter and Lysol. Honestly, I was fine.

The Nap of All Naps

Next thing I knew, they gave me a little injection, and… BAM. Out like a light.

I didn’t dream about squirrels. Missed opportunity.

When I woke up, I felt a little weird—like I’d done too many zoomies and forgot to stretch. But I wasn’t in pain. Just groggy. I heard someone say, “Moose is waking up!” and then I got a warm towel and some nose boops.

I was too sleepy to protest, but I noticed something: I had a tiny shaved spot, a few stitches, and a new fashion accessory called a “cone.” Not ideal, but it made me feel kind of important.

The Ride Home

My human came back that afternoon, gave me a kiss on the nose, and said I was a “very brave boy.” I got carried to the car like royalty. At home, I got a soft bed, chicken and rice (YES!), and so many treats I thought it might be my birthday.

They said I had to rest for a few days—no jumping, no running, and definitely no squirrel patrol. I tolerated it. Mostly.

Life After the Snip

Within a few days, I was back to my usual self—chasing shadows, guarding the backyard, and pretending I don’t understand the word “sit.” The only difference? I couldn’t make puppies anymore. Which is fine, honestly. I don’t even know how to fill out a daycare application.

A More Chill Moose

Now that I’m all healed up, I’ve gotta admit—I feel calmer. I don’t bark at every squirrel like it’s a federal offense. I’m not constantly sniffing the air like I’m on a detective mission. I’m just... more relaxed.

I still love walks, toys, and belly rubs, but I’m not so agitated all the time. My human says I don’t pace as much and that I listen better. Honestly? Life feels less confusing now. I’ve got more brain space for the good stuff—like naps in sunbeams and sneakily chewing socks when no one’s looking.

From One Dog to Another

If your human is thinking about getting you “fixed,” tell them this: it’s not scary. The humans at the clinic know what they’re doing. The nap is top-tier. The recovery is manageable. And afterward, you get a ton of attention, treats, and sympathy belly rubs.

Getting fixed doesn’t change who you are. It just means fewer puppies without homes, fewer dogs in shelters, and more resources for the ones already here. That’s a big win—for all of us.

Now if you’ll excuse me, someone said the word “walk,” and I’m legally obligated to act like it’s the best thing I’ve ever heard.

Sincerely,
Moose
(Recently Snipped, Still Handsome, Now 20% More Zen)

🐾 A Little Help from My (Human) Friends

Not every pup is as lucky as I was. Some dogs never get the chance to be “fixed” simply because their humans can’t afford it. That’s where the real heroes come in—groups like PennyFix.

PennyFix helps fund spay and neuter surgeries for pets in need, making sure dogs like me get the care we deserve, no matter our humans’ financial situation. They believe in prevention, compassion, and giving every animal a better shot at life.

Want to help more dogs get their happy, healthy “snip day” like I did?

Support the mission. Spread the word. Make a donation.
A penny a day helps a neuter or spay.

Caroline Weber