Frequently Asked Questions

Your guide to neutering, vaccinations, and travelling abroad with your pet.

Neutering Dogs

Neutering female dogs prevents unwanted pregnancy and reduces the risk of uterine and ovarian disease later in life. For male dogs, the decision is based on breed, behaviour, and lifestyle.

We generally recommend spaying females between 12–23 months, depending on breed. Male castration is assessed on a case-by-case basis, usually after physical maturity.

Surgical neutering (permanent):

  • Performed under general anaesthesia.
  • Traditional midline surgery and laparoscopic (keyhole) spay available for females.

Hormonal implants (reversible):

  • A temporary, non-surgical option that reduces fertility and hormone levels.

A minimally invasive alternative to traditional surgery using tiny keyhole openings and a miniature camera.

Laparoscopic spays use tiny incisions and specialised equipment, resulting in smaller wounds, reduced post-operative pain, and faster recovery.

Neutering Cats

Neutering female cats prevents unwanted pregnancy and reduces the risk of mammary tumours.

Male cats benefit from reduced risk of infectious diseases such as FIV and FeLV, which spread through fighting and mating.

We recommend neutering at around 16 weeks, although some large breeds may benefit from waiting slightly longer.

Surgical neutering (permanent):

  • Performed under general anaesthesia.
  • Flank or midline incision, and laparoscopic spay for females.

Hormonal implants (reversible):

  • A temporary non-surgical option that reduces fertility and hormone levels. (This is not a licensed procedure for female cats).

Vaccinations for Dogs and Cats

Vaccinations protect against serious, potentially life-threatening diseases and are a vital part of preventative healthcare.

Every vaccination appointment includes a full health check. Most vaccines are injected under the skin; kennel cough is administered into the nostril.

  • Canine Distemper Virus
  • Canine Adenovirus (Infectious Hepatitis)
  • Canine Parvovirus
  • Leptospirosis (L4)
  • First vaccine: from 8 weeks
  • Second vaccine: 4 weeks later

Puppies can go for walks 2 weeks after the second vaccination.

An infectious respiratory disease caused by canine parainfluenza virus and Bordetella bronchiseptica.

Recommended for dogs that mix with others (kennels, daycare, training).

Vaccination reduces severity and spread, especially for puppies, elderly dogs, or those with health issues.

  • Feline Herpesvirus
  • Feline Calicivirus
  • Feline Panleukopenia (Feline Parvovirus)
  • Feline Leukaemia Virus (FeLV)
  • First vaccine: from 8 weeks
  • Second vaccine: 3–4 weeks later (minimum age 12 weeks)

Kittens can go outdoors 2 weeks after the second vaccination.

Travelling Abroad

Yes – we can issue both Animal Health Certificates (AHCs) and Export Health Certificates (EHCs), including required examinations, vaccinations, and tests.