Dog Surgical Procedures

• Spays
• Neuters
• Dental Procedures
• Mass Removals

• Foreign Body Removals
• Torn Cruciate or ACL Ruptures
• Abscess Repairs
• Laceration Repairs

In an emergency situation, there may be limited time for preparations before your dog undergoes a procedure. However, for routine surgeries, The Pets I Love team will provide you with detailed pre-surgical instructions tailored to your dog. As with any anesthetic or surgical procedure, there is always a small risk involved. Pre-operative blood work is a useful screening test that may detect pre-existing problems that could interfere with the pet’s ability to handle anesthetic drugs.

Although these guidelines may differ slightly depending on the type of procedure, the general guideline for pre-operative care:

• Pick up your dog’s food by midnight the night before surgery, but allow them to have access to water
• All of your dog’s routine medications should be given as normally unless otherwise instructed by a member of our veterinary team
• Diabetic dogs may need special fasting instructions
• Be on time for your surgery drop off appointment. There is an important pre-surgical process that requires your dog to be in the hospital when scheduled
• On your arrival, you will be asked to sign a surgical consent form. Please read this form carefully and advise of any other treatment required while your dog is under our care, i.e. microchipping
• We may need to contact you during the procedure or to discuss results. Please be prepared to leave a contact number where we can reach someone at all times

Set up a quiet, warm space in your home where your dog can recover. Keep young children and other pets away to minimize stress. Restrict activity for the remainder of the day. No running, jumping or limit use of stairs. No rough-house or play with other animals. Dogs should be walked on a leash for short periods of time rather than free roaming.

You will be provided with a discharge appointment and we will provide detailed post-surgical instructions when you arrive to pick up your dog.

Although these guidelines may differ slightly depending on the type of procedure, the general guideline for postoperative care:

• Most routine procedures can go home the same day
• Advanced or emergency procedures, often stay 24 hours or longer depending on the procedure in order to monitor vital signs and to deliver critical care
• Make sure to schedule your follow up appointment (if needed)
• Most importantly, before you leave, make sure you have a good understanding of post-surgical instructions. Remember, all questions are good questions.

• Your dog may appear disoriented or groggy for a few hours after waking up from general anesthesia
• Your dog may have a decreased appetite
• Your dogs incision site will have a slight redness

If you notice your dogs refusal to eat 48 hours after surgery, lethargy that persists more than 48 hours after surgery, crying out in pain, or excessive swelling or redness at the incision site give The Pets I Love a call immediately.