Snip for a Cause: How Allegheny Spay and Neuter is Making a Difference in Pet Health and Overpopulation – GantNews.com

At Allegheny Spay and Neuter Clinic/Animal Welfare Council of the Alleghenies, a quiet hum of activity fills the air as pet owners bring in their furry companions for a life-changing procedure. With skilled hands and compassionate hearts, the clinic’s veterinarians and staff perform dozens of spay and neuter surgeries each week, helping to curb pet overpopulation and improve animal health. For many pet owners, this service is not just a medical necessity—it’s a vital step toward a healthier, happier community.

Mandi Lippert, client service coordinator, said the clinic has performed more than 100,000 alterations since opening in 2009.

This surgery, she said, helps protect the animals from cancer, masses, and some behavioral issues.

Cats can be altered when they weigh at least three pounds, rabbits a six months, and dogs at six months unless it is a large breed, then it would be nine months. The surgery comes with few risks, but there is always a slight one with anesthesia. “The pros do outweigh the cons,” Lippert said. The procedure is same-day, she said. Pet parents can drop off and pick up the same afternoon. There is also a bus service to take care of 33 counties and their pet population. Recovery generally takes 10-14 days. A cone (or e-collar) will be issued for dogs. Cats generally don’t fuss with their sutures, but activities should be limited.

Complications are limited, but owners should watch for any discharge or redness, as well as if their pet is not eating or drinking as normal. “If there are any concerns, please call us,” Lippert said.

She noted that alteration surgery can help with marking and aggression.

In addition to spay and neuter, the clinic also offers wellness appointments, vaccines, anal gland expression, blood work, radiographs, and dental exams. While not a full-service veterinary clinic, the facility does provide a host of offerings for pets.

The clinic is currently selling Sid’s Subs coupons, and there are several upcoming fundraiser events.

The third annual basket party will be April 5 at the Clearfield VFW Post 1785. Tickets are $15 and can be purchased now at the clinic or the VFW. Donations are also being accepted for the basket party. An Easter Bone Hunt will be held on April 26 at the Lawrence Township Dog Park. Registration for the event will be at 2 p.m., with the hunt starting at 2:30 p.m. The hunt will feature a 50/50 and silent auction. Note that all dogs must be on a leash.

The Easter Bunny will be available for photos with pets April 26 for the first-ever joint fundraiser with the Clearfield SPCA. The all-day event will be held at the Elks Country Home in Shawville with concessions, a corn hole tournament, live music, cash bar, bingo, fat Albert and more. Tickets are available now at the clinic for $15. Raffle prizes include a side-by-side, a pistol, and a designer purse.

Lippert noted that she wishes more people knew about the good the clinic does for animals. “We would help every animal if we could. We really do care about the animals, they are the reason why we are there. We aren’t full service, so we do always recommend being established at another vet as well, and we are not an emergency vet. Our mission is the greatest good for the greatest amount of animals.”