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
Will my pet receive a complete physical examination prior to surgery?
This is important for a number of reasons. It is our first defense against performing surgery on an animal that may have infectious disease, a heart murmur, or be debilitated from parasites. Pre-surgical blood work should be offered to screen for low red-cell counts (anemia), liver/kidney function (these organs are most involved in clearing the anesthetic agent) as well as glucose levels and several other basic chemistries which can indicate an underlying problem that is not yet manifesting overt symptoms.
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 on all anesthetized patients. This keeps the airway open and allows for supplemental oxygen or gas anesthesia as needed. A heart (EKG) and oxygen monitor allows the surgeon to keep track of heart rate and rhythm as well as the amount of oxygen in the blood. The placement of an intravenous catheter prior to surgery makes it easier to administer any intra-operative medications that may become necessary. The practice should also have a “crash box” handy, which contains emergency drugs and supplies. Licensed Veterinary Technicians should be on staff to provide care and monitoring before, during and after surgery.
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.
Who cares for my pet overnight after surgery?
Ideally, a staff member trained in the specifics of post-surgical care will be in the hospital overnight and can continue to monitor surgical patients. Dale City Animal Hospital is one of the few hospitals in the area that does have such a staff member available the five days a week on which surgeries are scheduled.
How will pain be controlled for my pet?
This is very important – surgery hurts! The anesthetic will not provide pain control once your pet wakes up. Oral pain control, or injectable pain control until the pet is awake enough to swallow a tablet, should be offered.
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.
If you have questions or comments about this article, please contact us.
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