The experience of having a pet undergo anesthesia and surgery is stressful for many owners and their pets. The more information you have about the process, the less anxious you will be. Being informed also allows you to better care for your pet during the pre and post surgical process.
For prospective clients seeking Surgical Services for Dogs and Cats in East Vancouver, we aim to explain medical procedures clearly and help alleviate any concerns about the process.
Prior to Surgery
Your veterinarian will first have to do a physical exam on your pet to determine if he/she is a suitable candidate for surgery. This is the time for you, as the pet owner, to have all your questions answered regarding the surgery.
Certain diagnostic tests may be necessary before surgical procedures to access your pet’s overall health and function legal care and appropriate anesthesia.
It is essential that you follow the instructions of your veterinary team. Your pet may need to be fasting for a period of time before surgery. Give your pet the medication that he/she is allowed to have, but do not allow access to food and water.
The calmer you are, the more at ease your pet will be. Be sure to follow the instructions for arrival time and do not be late. Let the staff know of any changes in your pet’s health.
Post Surgery
After your pet has been discharged, follow the instructions given to you very carefully. Contact your veterinarian right away if your pet is vomiting or having diarrhea.
What Happens During Your Pet’s Surgery?
Once your pet has been checked in for their surgery, there are a few basic steps that the veterinary team will follow to ensure the safety and comfort of your pet during their procedure. If your pet’s surgery is of a major nature, anesthesia will be implemented to prevent your pet from experiencing pain and distress during the procedure.
The veterinary team will carefully monitor your pet during the procedure and recovery. Immediately following the procedure, your pet may not be fully recovered from the anesthesia and may display symptoms of sleepiness and/or lack of balance. It is important to report these
conditions to the veterinary staff to be alerted of conditions that you should be aware of while your pet is in your care.
Post operative care of your pet is very important and will help your pet recover and feel better faster. It is very important to strictly follow the medical instructions of your pet’s veterinarian and not to discontinue the medications or restrict your pet from certain activities until they
are fully recovered.
Your pet may be still feeling pain and/or distress and display conditions that may alarm you if you are not fully informed of the status of your pet. Report all of your concerns to your veterinarian.
Understanding Pet Recovery
Pet recovery varies. Things like age, health, and the nature of the surgery affect it. Further, each pet is unique and therefore has different needs during recovery. Regular visits to your veterinarian help them manage your pet’s recovery and address questions you may have.
The veterinarians at Good Pet Care in East Vancouver go the extra mile to ensure your pet is as comfortable as possible during and after treatment. They also provide excellent after-care guidelines. Following these guidelines and visiting at the scheduled times help the treatment
and after-care process a lot.
You should feel free to ask any question you may have concerning your pet’s treatment and recovery. Understanding your pet’s procedure and what to expect helps you and your pet’s family support the pet during this time.
What to Expect During Recovery?
How long is the recovery process for pets?
It varies. For example, a simple routine pet procedure may allow your pet to go about its daily activities in a few days, whereas a more complicated surgery may require longer recovery time.
Will my pet want to eat after the surgery?
Your pet may lose its appetite after the procedure due to the effects of anesthesia. Your veterinarian may give you instructions concerning your pet’s post-surgery food intake.
How can my pet’s licking be stopped?
Pets, especially cats, may lick their surgical site and disrupt their stitches, causing the incision to re-open. To prevent this, a protective apparatus called an Elizabethan Collar may be used.
When should I call the vet after my pet’s surgery?
The surgical team will inform you on your pet’s expected recovery, and what signs to look for that may require a call to the veterinarian. You should always contact us if you notice any unusual behavior or signs that concern you, no matter how minor you may think they are. It is better to be safe and have your pet seen and examined.
We provide a variety of surgeries and veterinary care for dogs and cats. Renfrew Animal Hospital’s team is dedicated to providing the highest quality care for our patients.
Contact us to find out more about the services we provide, and for more information on the care we provide in East Vancouver.