surgery
Our surgical suite offers the most up-to-date methods of anesthesia and related procedures (monitoring equipment, pain management protocols, etc). Some of our hospital’s more common procedures include:
- Dog and Cat Spay (ovariohysterectomy)
- Dog and Cat Neuter (castration)
- Cat Declaw
- Puppy tail dock and dewclaw removal
- Wart/Cyst/Mass Removal
- Suturing lacerations
- Foreign Body Removal
- Ear Hematoma Repair
- Hernia Repair
- Cherry Eye Surgery (third eyelid)
- Caesarean Section (C-section)
- Exploratory Abdominal Surgery
- Cystotomy
- Splenectomy
- Gastronomy
- Companion Animal Laser Therapy
- Cryosurgery
Pre-Anesthetic Blood Testing
Before any procedure, the veterinarian will perform a physical exam on the patient. However, because there is always the possibility that a physical exam alone may not identify all health problems, we recommend that pre-anesthetic blood tests be performed within 30 days of the procedure. We will use the information obtained from these tests to tailor an anesthetic protocol especially for your pet so that it will be as safe and comfortable as possible during the surgical procedure.
Pre-Procedure Instructions
- No food or treats after 8pm the night before the procedure
- Check-in with the doctor between 7:30 and 9:00am on the morning of the procedure. The doctor will discuss discharge times and aftercare instructions
Post-Procedure Instructions
- Most patients will go home with sutures that will need to be removed (Return for suture removal 10 to 14 days following the procedure)
- Check the suture area regularly for signs of redness, swelling or irritation and call us if you notice any problems or have any concerns
- Monitor your pet for signs of chewing or licking at the stitches. An E-collar can be sent home to help deter your pet from this behavior
- We will send pain medication home for your pet if we foresee that he/she will need them following the procedure. You can also monitor your pet for signs of pain or discomfort. Please contact us if you have any concerns or observe your pet exhibiting any of the following signs or behaviors:
- Posture – tucking of abdomen, drooping head, arching back
- Temperament – aggression, guarding of painful area, avoidance of social interaction, hiding, abnormal behavior
- Movement – reluctance to move, prolonged lying or sitting, lameness, or acting tender, uncomfortable or restless
- Appetite – decrease in food or water intake
- Grooming – decrease in normal grooming habits OR excessive grooming or licking
- Vocalizing – crying out or whining