PetWell
About TCAP & Our Mission
TCAP was established in 2002 to provide an affordable way to spay and neuter pets Since that time, TCAP has opened eight clinics Weâve also added a variety of services including low-cost vaccines, microchipping, heart worm testing and prevention, and dental cleanings TCAPâs prices are, on average, up to 87% less than what traditional veterinary clinics charge.
TCAP contracts licensed veterinarians who have extensive surgical experience and are well-versed in preventative animal care. We also employ experienced and caring veterinary technicians who work alongside and support our veterinary team during their surgery sessions Our compassionate employees and our amazing shelter and rescue partners throughout North Texas help us in the fight against euthanasia in our area shelters
The Texas Coalition for Animal Protection (TCAP) is a nonprofit organization that supplies low-cost services to those qualified for assistance programs. TCAP provides services to those who are indigent and lack sufficient means to provide medical care for their pets TCAP is able to provide subsidized savings at our clinics thanks to the generosity of our donors and sponsors This savings allows our clients to care for their pets using low-cost copays
Deciding to spay or neuter your dog is one of the most important decisions youâll make as a pet parent If you own a female dog, you may be wondering when the best age is to have them spayed. Sterilizing your dog will impact their future behavior and can improve their health outcomes.
What is Spaying?
Spaying a female dog (also known as neutering) is a preventative procedure to stop pregnancies, including phantom pregnancies It can also reduce the risk of your dog developing certain health complications, including cancer
Spaying is a surgical procedure carried out by a vet, who will remove some or all your dogâs reproductive organs
What Age Should a Female Dog Be Spayed?
by TCAP Staff
Should You Spay Before Their First Season?
CYCLE...INCREASES
TCAP guidelines state that pets must be at least 10 weeks old before they are spayed Each heat cycle that your dog goes through increases their risk of pyometra and breast cancer
Thereâs no exact way of knowing when your dog will go into her first heat, but it can be helpful to know her family history to try and predict this Some dogs can benefit from going through one heat season, especially larger breeds, highly active dogs, and breeds prone to joint issues and incontinence problems. One season allows their joints and vulva to develop better TCAP only performs sterilization on pets less than five years old EACH HEAT
Benefits of Spaying:
Significantly reduce the risk of mammary cancer and uterine cancer
Reduced risk of mammary tumors
Eliminates the risk of mastitis from nursing
Eliminates the risk of pyometra â a deadly uterine infection
However, if your female dog is in an environment with another female dog of the same age or breed and if there are already signs of tension The higher hormone levels a dog has during their season may result in aggression between your dogs, so spaying before the first season could prevent this
Dog Spaying Surgery
What occurs during a spay surgery? At TCAP, the veterinarian performs a full ovariohysterectomy This procedure involves the removal of both the uterus and ovaries
Do not give pets food after 10 pm the night before surgery Your dog will be given medication to make them sleepy before being put under a full anesthetic for surgery
Spaying surgeries are performed with an incision made at the belly, which is then closed with internal dissolvable stitches and surgical glue or external stitches. After surgery, your dog will be taken to a recovery area until the anesthetic wears off. You can expect to be reunited with your dog later that day
Aftercare for Dog Spaying
Once your dog is back home, youâll want to keep them in a calm environment, avoiding loud noise. Avoid having your dog move too much for the first day. You can take them outside on a lead to relieve themselves, preventing them from walking too much.
Youâll want to keep an eye on your dog to prevent them from licking their stitches to avoid infection. Your dog will likely be sent home with a doughnut collar to prevent wound irritation. You can expect to take your dog back to the clinic for a post-surgery check-up a few days afterward. After 10 days, you can put your dog back onto their regular routine.
Behavioral and Nutritional Needs After Spaying
Spaying your dog removes the hormones that can result in increased aggression and reactivity during heat. However, it wonât remove any existing negative behavior that your dog may be presenting outside of heat, which may require the help of a dog behavioralist or trainer.
Itâs worth noting that spaying will also change your dogâs nutritional needs Itâs common for dogs to gain weight in the weeks and months after their spaying surgery due to changes in their metabolism Your vet may recommend adjusting your dogâs food intake and most dog food brands offer specially formulated food for spayed dogs to ensure they meet their nutritional needs.
Book an Affordable Spay Appointment for Your Dog
Spaying your female dog has extensive health benefits, including reducing their risk of breast cancer and preventing uterine infection It can also help reduce animal overpopulation and minimize mating-related behavior from dogs by removing their heat cycles.
Are you planning to spay your dog? Schedule an appointment or get a quote today. Do you have a question about neutering your female dog? Call our team at 940-566-5551 for more information.
âThis place is awesome I know a-lot of my family goes here for the affordable pricing, I mean who could ask for better prices? Itâs amazing, and the way they handle and take care of my fur babies I couldnât ask for better service. I highly recommend this place if you want to keep your fur babies in great health!â
NovemberSpecials
$15 Feline Sterilizations
with purchase of full set of vaccines or microchip
off Bravecto* *with purchase of 1 year supply (in-clinic only)
Most Popular Dallas Dog Parks
Barry Annino Bark Park
Previously known as âBark Park Centralâ & located in Deep Ellum - there is a 12-acre, offleash dog park. This Dallas dog park is a popular option for preor post-dinner strolls, with plenty of dog-friendly restaurants and dining options in the nearby neighborhood.
Katy Trail
My Best Friendâs Park at Kyle Warren Park
Located at Kyle Warren Park and is perfect for dogs under 30lbs. This pet-friendly park is a fenced-in, offleash space, ideal for allowing your pets to explore. Itâs a great spot for your dogs to run around and play in an open space This dog-friendly park hosts a range of free fitness classes with events with live music and food trucks
NorthBark Dog Park
This dog-friendly park is the largest in North Texas with over 22 acres of space to explore Has a range of pavilions, trails, and even a doggie beach This Dallas dog park is the perfect spot for a weekend trip with your dog and a must-visit with extensive facilities, including a dog shower and pond for your furry friends to enjoy.
This 3.5-mile trail is an alternative to traditional dog parks and runs from the American Airlines Center to the West End, taking you through Mockingbird DART Station and the urban heart of Dallas. There are plenty of pet-friendly places to stop along your trail
Main Street Garden
Located in Downtown Dallas, with 1.75 acres of green spaces to bring your dog for a walk or to relax by a fountain in the shade The garden offers Wi-Fi and a café with public art installations, perfect for catching up with friends or taking your dog out for the day.
White Rock Lake Dog Park
With 3-acres of off-leash space in East Dallas, there are designated areas for dogs of all sizes, including dog washes and splash zones. Itâs free with plenty of open spaces to cool down on a hot day & offers drinking bowls, a fenced area, shade structures in dog paddocks, and pet comfort stations.
4 5
Most Popular Dallas Dog Parks
Wagging Tail Dog Park
The first dog park designed by the City of Dallas and is a 69acre, off-leash dog space with a loop trail It has a flagstone observation deck 35 feet above White Rock Creek with breathtaking views of the waterfall This park also has metal fencing with picnic areas, shaded sections, and a designated small dog and large dog area
Crockett Park
One of the most unique dog parks with 125-acre off-leash community-oriented space with designated areas for large and small dogs, fully fitted with benches, waste stations, and mesh fencing
Griggs Park
A historic park with 8-acres to explore in Uptown Dallas. Itâs the perfect choice for days when you want to relax in the sun with your friends and pets This park has playgrounds, pet areas, picnic spaces, and quiet areas
Mutts Canine Cantina
The ultimate space for both you and your dog as a petfriendly restaurant with a designated dog park Relax and enjoy a beer or cocktail in the garden patio with dog snacks and treats to keep your four-legged friend entertained
Central Dog Park
In West Highland, youâll find Central Dog Park behind the Central Commons building. Itâs a low-key space, ideal for taking your dog if theyâre getting used to being out in public or if you want a quieter space with fewer people Itâs a free, community-funded dog park
Baconâs Dog Park
The Shacks at Austin Ranch is a residential and retail space with its own dog park Baconâs Dog Park is an off-leash area suitable for small and large dogs Although free for residents of the apartment complex, you can also purchase a monthly or yearly subscription to access the dog park and other facilities 12
LEADING WITH HEART:
Nicole Constantine
Meet Nicole, the Allen Clinic Manager at TCAP. She is the embodiment of service leadership. which is what has driven her career for the past six years. With a Bachelor's Degree in Environmental Science from the University of North Texas, Nicole's passion for making a difference led her to the veterinary field, where she found her true calling.
"I got into Vet Med because I wanted to be in a career that made a difference, and that is something that we do every day. We help pets, people, and the community," Nicole explains. Her dedication to service began from many years of volunteering during college and fuels her passion for making a positive impact in her managerial role.
Nicole's leadership style is characterized by positivity and a focus on personal connections. "When you start to lead that train of positivity, people will jump on it," she says. "When you're positive, people can do a lot of really amazing things." She takes pride in fostering a team environment where coworkers are more than just coworkers â they're friends.
Wehelppets,people,and thecommunity â â
Outside of work, Nicole is a proud pet parent to Coconut, a sun-loving Pyrenees/Lab mix, and Bandit, a gentle Lab mix with a penchant for carrying toys. Her love for animals extends beyond her own pets, as she advocates for rescue animals and believes that any rescue pet could be her dream pet.
When she's not at the clinic, Nicole enjoys listening to a podcast while participating in outdoor activities, such as running, hiking, and biking She's also passionate about being creative and upcycling thrift store finds When she isnât cooking, reading, or work working out, Nicole enjoys perusing Pinterest boards for inspiration to redecorate her home
Nicole's commitment to service, positive leadership, and love for animals make her an invaluable asset to TCAP and the community it serves. Her story is a testament to the power of combining passion with purpose in one's career.
Tune in to Nicoleâs Story:
NicolespeaksonherroleasClinicManageratthe Allen,TexasTCAPcliniclocationandwhatinspired hertochooseacareerinthefieldofVetMedicine.
TolearnmoreaboutNicole&herpassionfor animals, watchherfullinterview: Nicoleâs Story
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Understanding Heartworm Disease A Comprehensive Guide to Protection
In the warm climate of North Texas, a hidden menace threatens our pets: heartworm disease
At the Texas Coalition for Animal Protection (TCAP), we â re dedicated to raising awareness and promoting the crucial role of preventive care Dive into our guide to equip yourself with the knowledge needed to shield your cherished pets from this invisible enemy
The Hidden Menace of Heartworm Disease
Heartworm disease, caused by the parasite Dirofilaria immitis, is transmitted via mosquito bites The larvae evolve into adult worms within your petâs heart, lungs, and blood vessels The danger of heartworm lies in its stealthy nature, often remaining undetected until itâs alarmingly advanced
The Key to Heartworm Prevention
At TCAP, we believe that prevention is the key to safeguarding your petâs health Affordable and accessible heartworm prevention is a cornerstone of responsible pet ownership, and itâs crucial to keep your pets on a monthly prevention in regions like Texas where mosquito activity persists year-round
Given the persistent mosquito activity in our region, year-round heartworm prevention is not just advisable itâs essential
TCAP offers a variety of preventive options tailored to your petâs needs and lifestyle, ensuring that protection is maintained in all seasons
Heartworm Prevention
Heartworm Test $20
A simple blood draw performed during any of our vaccine events Results ready in approximately 10-15 minutes.
TriHeart Plus $30 - $40
A monthly chewable to keep your pet protected from heartworms, and intestinal parasites like roundworms and hookworms
Trifexis $135
A monthly chewable prevention to keep your pet protected from heartworms, fleas, and intestinal parasites (roundworms, hookworms, and tapeworms).
Heartworm Testing
Before embarking on a preventive regimen, itâs imperative to ensure your pet is heartworm-free TCAP provides affordable annual heartworm testing for $20 to confirm your petâs status, allowing for the initiation of appropriate preventive measures This test is done via a blood draw and the process usually takes about 10 minutes to get a result
If the test is Negative, we are able to proceed with filling your petâs heartworm prescription medication either by a purchase in the clinic or through TCAPâs online fulfillment center, which carries a large variety of heartworm prevention options
Taking a Stand Against Heartworm Disease
In the fight against heartworm disease, consistency is your strongest ally Heartworm prevention is not just a task; itâs a commitment to your petâs wellbeing At TCAP, we stand alongside you in this commitment, offering affordable and compassionate heartworm prevention with 6 months of medication starting at just $30 Visit us on a firstcome-first-served basis during our walkin vaccine hours for your petâs annual heartworm test to get started.
Together, we can safeguard our pets from heartworm disease, ensuring they enjoy the vibrant health and joy they so richly deserve Visit TCAP for all your petâs heartworm prevention needs and join our community of responsible pet owners today.
Parting Shot
The TCAP Staff in Denton enjoy Halloween together. Know someone who should join our team? Have them apply: https://texasforthem.org/careers/