What happens if you miss your spay/neuter deadline
Your contract sets a spay/neuter deadline. If it passes, here's exactly what to expect and how to get back on track. We would much rather help you meet the deadline than apply any penalty.
What to expect, step by step
Before your deadline
Reminders
We'll email you ahead of your deadline so it doesn't sneak up on you. If you've already scheduled the procedure, you can let us know early and we'll stop sending reminders.
Right after your deadline
We get in touch
If we haven't received proof by your deadline, we'll reach out by email (and by phone or text if we have those on file) to check in and help you get back on track. We default to assuming something got in the way, not that you don't care.
A short grace period
Time to resolve
You'll have a short window to either submit proof, schedule the procedure and tell us when, or request an extension if you have a valid medical or personal reason. Most cases resolve at this stage.
If the grace period passes
A fee applies
If we still haven't heard from you, the spay/neuter fee in your contract applies. You'll get a notification with the amount and a payment link. Paying the fee does not satisfy your contract obligation, you're still required to sterilize your pet.
If non-compliance continues
Your case escalates
If the deadline keeps slipping and we can't get a response, your case escalates through the process set out in your signed contract. That typically means binding arbitration, and any award can be confirmed as a court judgment. We use that judgment to collect what's owed under the contract so your breeder and SpaySecure are made whole for the unmet obligation. You'll also be added to our non-compliance database, which means you won't be able to purchase a pet through SpaySecure in the future.
If you need more time
If your veterinarian recommends delaying the procedure, or if something else is making the deadline hard to meet, you can request an extension. Reach out before the deadline if you can, we have a lot more flexibility before things escalate.
If your pet has passed
We are sorry for your loss. Let us know using the Pet Death Notification form and provide documentation (vet records or a death certificate). Once verified, we'll close your contract obligations and notify your breeder.
Your obligation doesn't go away
Paying a fee, missing a deadline, or having a case escalate does not replace the spay/neuter requirement in your contract. You remain legally required to sterilize your pet. The reason the requirement exists is the same as on day one, your pet's long-term health and the health of the breed.
Have questions?
The earlier you reach out, the more we can do. If you're stuck or unsure, get in touch.
The exact deadlines, fees, and escalation steps are defined in the spay/neuter contract you signed with your breeder. This page is the plain-English version. The contract is what's enforced.