Surgery

Veterinary Surgery for Cats, Dogs, and Rabbits: Safe and Compassionate Care

At vet.co.uk, Poplar Vets and Wood Wharf Vets clinics we understand that the thought of your pet undergoing surgery can be stressful. Whether it’s a routine procedure like spaying and neutering or a more complex surgery, our experienced veterinary team is here to provide the highest level of care for your dogs, cats, and rabbits. We ensure your pet’s safety and comfort at every step, from pre-surgical evaluations to post-operative recovery.

Common Types of Veterinary Surgeries

Routine Surgeries
Routine surgeries are essential for maintaining your pet’s health and preventing future complications. These procedures are typically planned in advance and are part of responsible pet ownership.

Spaying and Neutering: One of the most common surgeries performed, spaying and neutering not only prevent unwanted pregnancies but also reduce the risk of certain cancers and behavioral issues.
Dental Surgery: Pets often need dental cleanings or extractions to maintain good oral health, preventing infections and tooth decay.
Mass Removal: Benign lumps or tumors can be surgically removed to prevent complications or discomfort.

Emergency Surgeries
In some cases, your pet may require surgery due to an unexpected illness or injury. Emergency surgeries are performed to save your pet’s life or to treat urgent medical conditions.

Foreign Body Removal: Pets, especially dogs and cats, may accidentally ingest foreign objects that become lodged in their digestive system, requiring surgical removal.
Bloat Surgery (for dogs): Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (GDV), or bloat, is a life-threatening condition where the stomach twists. Emergency surgery is required to correct it.
Trauma Repair: In the case of severe injuries like fractures or wounds from accidents, surgical intervention is often necessary to repair the damage.

Orthopedic Surgeries
Orthopedic surgeries are required to correct bone and joint issues, often due to injury or congenital defects.

Fracture Repair: Broken bones need to be surgically set and stabilized to heal properly, especially in active pets.
Cruciate Ligament Repair (for dogs): This surgery is commonly performed on dogs with torn knee ligaments, which is a frequent injury in larger breeds.
Hip Dysplasia Surgery: Pets suffering from hip dysplasia, a condition where the hip joint doesn’t develop correctly, may require surgery to alleviate pain and improve mobility.

What to Expect Before, During, and After Surgery

Pre-Surgical Care

Before any surgical procedure, our veterinary team will conduct a thorough pre-surgical examination to assess your pet’s health. This typically includes:

Blood tests to evaluate organ function and ensure your pet can safely undergo anesthesia.
X-rays or ultrasounds, if necessary, to get a clearer picture of any underlying issues that need to be addressed during surgery.
Fasting instructions: Your pet may need to fast for several hours before surgery to minimize the risk of complications under anesthesia.

During Surgery

Our experienced surgeons and vet nurses use advanced equipment and techniques to ensure the procedure goes smoothly. Throughout the surgery:

Anesthesia monitoring: We carefully monitor your pet’s vital signs, including heart rate, blood pressure, and oxygen levels, to ensure their safety under anesthesia.
Pain management: We administer pain relief during and after the surgery to keep your pet as comfortable as possible.

Post-Surgical Care

After the surgery is completed, your pet will be closely monitored as they wake up from anesthesia. We will provide detailed instructions for home care, including:

Post-op medications: These may include pain relief, antibiotics, or anti-inflammatories to aid in your pet’s recovery.
Activity restrictions: Depending on the procedure, your pet may need to avoid strenuous activities to prevent injury or complications during healing.
Follow-up appointments: Regular check-ups may be scheduled to ensure your pet is healing properly and to remove any stitches or staples.

Minimizing the Risks of Pet Surgery

While all surgeries carry some degree of risk, Vet.co.uk follows stringent safety protocols to minimize complications and ensure the best outcomes for your pet. Here are a few steps we take to reduce risks:

Advanced anesthesia: We use modern anesthesia techniques that are tailored to your pet’s specific needs, ensuring their safety during the procedure.
Comprehensive monitoring: Our surgical team monitors your pet’s vital signs throughout the procedure, using state-of-the-art equipment to catch any issues early.
Experienced surgeons: Our veterinary surgeons are highly skilled and experienced, providing a wide range of surgical procedures with the utmost care and precision.

Post-Surgery Care at Home

Proper aftercare is crucial to your pet’s recovery after surgery. Here are some general tips to follow when caring for your pet post-surgery:

Rest and Recovery: Keep your pet in a quiet, comfortable space where they can rest undisturbed.
Monitor the incision site: Check the surgical site daily for signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, or discharge. Keep it clean and dry.
Follow the vet’s instructions: Be sure to administer any prescribed medications as directed and follow all post-op care guidelines provided by your vet.
Limit activity: Prevent your pet from running, jumping, or playing too vigorously until they’re fully healed.

If you notice any signs of discomfort, infection, or complications, don’t hesitate to contact us immediately. At Vet.co.uk, we’re here to support you throughout your pet’s recovery process.

FAQs About Pet Surgery

Is pet surgery safe?

Yes, most pet surgeries are routine and safe, especially when performed by experienced veterinary professionals like those at Vet.co.uk. We use the latest technology to ensure your pet’s safety during surgery.

How long does it take for my pet to recover?

Recovery times vary depending on the type of surgery. Routine procedures like spaying or neutering usually require a few days of rest, while more complex surgeries may need weeks of recovery. Your vet will provide specific guidance for your pet’s situation.

Will my pet be in pain after surgery?

Pets may experience some discomfort after surgery, but we provide effective pain management to keep them comfortable. Most pets recover quickly with proper care.

Can I be with my pet during surgery?

For safety reasons, pet owners cannot be in the surgical suite. However, our veterinary team will keep you informed throughout the process and provide updates on your pet’s progress.

Trustworthy Surgical Care for Your Pets at Vet.co.uk

Whether it’s a planned procedure or an unexpected emergency, you can trust the experienced team at Vet.co.uk to provide safe and compassionate surgical care for your cats, dogs, and rabbits. We’re here to guide you through every step of the process, ensuring your pet receives the best possible care. Contact us today to discuss your pet’s surgical needs or to schedule a consultation with one of our expert vets.