Below are guidelines for preparing for surgery and caring for your pet after surgery. If you have any concerns or questions, please feel free to contact us at any time.
Preparing for Surgery
Scheduling
– Surgeries are scheduled only on weekdays. Emergency cases are exceptions.
Pre-Surgery Diet
– To prevent nausea and the risk of aspiration during anesthesia, it is recommended that the stomach be empty. Please withhold food for 12 hours before the surgery.
– For smaller pets, fasting may cause hypoglycemia. Consult your veterinarian if your pet needs liquid food up to 3 hours before the procedure.
– Water is allowed until the morning of the surgery.
Pre-Surgery Medication
– Some medications may require adjustments before surgery. Check with your veterinarian.
– Unless otherwise instructed, continue your pet’s usual medications on the morning of the surgery. If medications require food or treats, providing a small amount is acceptable.
Day of Surgery
– Confirm any remaining concerns with your veterinarian. You will receive a consent form for the surgery, which must be signed and submitted to the attending physician or reception.
– A deposit will be collected on the day of the surgery, and final billing will occur upon discharge.
Post-Surgery Care
Monitoring at Home
– Observe your pet’s condition closely at home and ensure a calm and comfortable environment to aid recovery. Contact us if you notice any issues or have concerns about your pet’s recovery.
Post-Surgery Medications
– Any required medications will be provided upon discharge. If you are unfamiliar with administering medication, we can provide instruction at discharge.
Exercise
– Keep your pet rested for the first 2-3 days at home. Limit outdoor activity to essential walks only.
– If prolonged rest is necessary, we will advise accordingly.
Surgical Site Care
– For surgeries involving skin sutures, you will need to return for suture removal 10 days to 2 weeks later. To prevent complications, use an Elizabethan collar or postoperative garment until sutures are removed.
– If the Elizabethan collar makes eating difficult, elevate the food bowl. The collar can be removed when you can supervise to prevent licking at the surgical site.
Hair Removal Sites
– If your pet is bothered by the shaved areas from IV lines or surgery, ensure they cannot lick the area by using a collar. Contact us if you notice swelling at the injection site or if your pet is holding up a leg.
Effects of Intubation
– Intubation during anesthesia may cause temporary throat discomfort, coughing, or hoarseness. This typically improves within a few days. Contact us if symptoms worsen.
Bathing and Grooming
– If not urgent, wait until after suture removal for bathing and grooming. If necessary for skin issues or cleanliness, consult us first.
– For non-surgical procedures requiring anesthesia, wait 2-3 days after full recovery before bathing or grooming.
Diet
– Unless instructed otherwise, feed your pet their regular diet. Depending on the condition, we may suggest dietary changes.
– If your pet is returning home the same day as the surgery, they may have impaired gastrointestinal function. Begin feeding a smaller portion after 6 hours post-anesthesia, observing for any issues. If they still seem hungry after 30 minutes, you may offer the remainder of their food.
At-Home Precautions
– For the first 2-3 days after surgery, your pet may sleep more than usual. Ensure they have a quiet and comfortable resting place. Appetite recovery can take 2-3 days.
Contact Us If You Notice:
- Complete loss of appetite lasting more than 2 days
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- Coughing or rapid breathing
- Redness, swelling, discharge, or odor from the surgical site
- Severe coughing
If you have any other concerns, please contact us anytime.
