Surgical Services for Pets

With our modern surgical protocols and experience, surgery is incredibly safe for our patients. We provide various procedures at our hospital including spays and neuters, orthopedic surgeries, dental operations, and other soft tissue procedures.

Is anesthesia safe for dogs and cats?

Anesthesia is safer than ever due to new anesthetic drugs and monitoring equipment. Pre-anesthetic blood testing is important in reducing the risk of anesthesia. Every pet needs blood testing before surgery to ensure the liver and kidneys can handle the anesthetic. Even apparently healthy animals can have serious organ system problems that cannot be detected without blood testing. If there is a problem, it is much better to find it before it causes anesthetic or surgical complications. Cats and dogs with minor dysfunction will handle the anesthetic better if they receive IV fluids during surgery. If serious problems are detected, surgery can be postponed until the problem is corrected. During surgery our veterinary technicians will monitor the patient's vital signs to ensure they are responding well to the anesthesia.

How can I prepare my cat or dog for surgery?

It is important that surgery be done on an empty stomach to reduce the risk of vomiting during and after anesthesia. (Sometimes, small dogs under 15 lbs. can have 1/4 of a meal before surgery.) You will need to withhold food for at least 8 to 10 hours before surgery. Water can be left down for the pet until the morning of surgery. Prior to the operation, our team will discuss any other preparations you need to make. To discuss the upcoming procedure for your cat or dog don't hesitate to call us at 705-431-5570.

What happens after surgery?

Once the procedure is completed, the cat or dog is monitored until the anesthesia wears off. The veterinarian will discuss how the surgery went, at home care, and pain medications. We will also schedule a follow-up examination to see how your pet is recovering. Here are some tips to care for your cat or dog during recovery:

• Administer medication on time even if it seems like they are feeling better
• Check the surgical wound regularly to ensure it is dry and clean
• Give your cat or dog time to rest
• Provide comfortable bedding and make their water and food easily accessible