Consumer Guide to Elective Surgery

Thank you for recognizing the need to spay or neuter your pet.  Many people “shop around” for the best price on this surgery, without the knowledge of why the cost varies among veterinary practices.  This guide was put together to help you find the best fit between the veterinary practice and your expectations for the care of your pet.

Questions to Ask and Why to Ask Them

1.    Will my pet receive a complete physical examination prior to surgery?

This is important for a number of reasons.  The exam gives us information that lets us know if your pet is a candidate for surgery at this time. If an animal has an infectious disease, a heart murmur, inherited abnormalities or is weakened from parasites, the pre-surgical exam will expose these complications.  An exam will also let us know that your pet is healthy and able to tolerate the surgical procedure.

2.    What safety precautions will be taken with my pet during surgery?

While most surgery is uneventful, emergencies sometimes arise.  Early detection of impending problems greatly aids our ability to intervene and correct the problem.  A breathing tube should be placed down the throat of all anesthetized animals.  This keeps the airway open and allows for supplemental oxygen or gas anesthesia as needed.  We use human quality gas and injectable anesthesia that provides pain control as well as allowing your pet to “sleep” through the surgery. A heart (EKG) and oxygen monitor allows our surgeons to keep track of heart rate and rhythm as well as the amount of oxygen in the blood.  Just as is standard with human medicine, we offerIV fluids to help maintain blood pressure during anesthesia, prevent dehydration, shorten recovery periods and provide access for injections without stress. IV fluids are especially valuable for elderly patients or those with kidney problems.   The practice should also have a “crash box” handy, which contains emergency drugs and supplies.

3.    What safety precautions will be taken with my pet after surgery?

Surgery patients lose body heat through anesthesia and the opening of body cavities.  If patients get too cold, the heart can be affected.  Patient temperature should be monitored at regular intervals after surgery and supplemental heating provided as needed.  Your pet’s gum color, pulse, and respiration should also be monitored as they recover from the anesthesia.

4.    How will pain be controlled for my pet?

This is very important- surgery hurts!  The anesthetic will not provide pain control once the pet wakes up.  Oral pain control medication to take home should be offered to you.

5.    Will I receive written post-surgical care instructions for my pet?

Aftercare of surgical patients is very important for proper healing.  The hospital should provide written discharge instructions for your pet. Our staff will review the written instructions with you and answer any questions you might have at the time you pick up your pet.  We’ll also call you a day or two after the surgery to see how you and your pet are doing.

For more details on surgery and anesthesia in our hospital please see our Surgery and Anesthesia page.