A spay is one of the most common procedures for companion animals — but how it's performed makes a real difference to comfort and recovery. Below, Dr. Antonio Pedraza compares the traditional open spay with the minimally invasive laparoscopic (keyhole) spay offered at our Santa Monica clinic, so you can make an informed choice for your companion animal.
Serving companion animals across Santa Monica, Los Angeles and the wider Westside.
Scroll horizontally to read all columns.
| Criteria | Traditional Spay | Laparoscopic Spay (Dr. Pedraza) |
|---|---|---|
| Incision size | One 1–4 inch incision | 1–2 keyhole incisions (~5 mm) |
| Ovarian ligament | Detached from the body wall | Cut and sealed under direct vision |
| Restricted activity | Restriction period set for the patient and procedure | Restriction period set for the patient and procedure |
| Internal visualization | Direct access through an abdominal incision | HD magnified camera view |
| Discharge timing | Based on clinical assessment and the recovery plan | Based on clinical assessment and the recovery plan |
| Senior / overweight / deep-chested dogs | Risk depends on the patient | Potentially less tissue disruption; risk is patient-dependent |
Prefer to ask first? Contact our Santa Monica clinic and we'll help you decide between a laparoscopic and traditional spay.
For more context on the procedure and recovery, read our guide to laparoscopic spay.
Have a large, deep-chested dog? Learn about preventive laparoscopic gastropexy to reduce the risk of stomach twisting (GDV).
For candidacy and the consultation discussion, see the laparoscopic spay service page.
Frequently asked questions
Clinical background and sources
These resources explain the general techniques and care considerations. Your veterinary team determines how they apply to your companion and the proposed procedure.
American College of Veterinary Surgeons
OvariohysterectomyOvariectomy and ovariohysterectomy, including open and laparoscopic approaches and general aftercare.
American Animal Hospital Association
2020 AAHA Anesthesia and Monitoring Guidelines for Dogs and CatsIndividual pre-anesthetic assessment, monitoring and the transition into recovery.
This page is educational and does not replace an individual veterinary examination. It is not for emergencies — if your companion is in distress, contact an emergency veterinary hospital. Los Angeles Laparoscopy Vet at Sevilla Veterinary Hospital, 2116 Main Street, Santa Monica.