Surgery

Guidance for Pet Surgery

Discovering that your beloved furry companion requires surgery can be an unsettling experience for any pet parent. Whether it’s a routine procedure like spaying or neutering or a more complex surgical intervention, selecting the right veterinary practice is paramount. Trusting the professionals at Creature Comforts in Inman, SC, who prioritize compassionate care, will provide peace of mind during this challenging time.

To ensure a smooth surgical journey for both you and your pet, consider the following essential guidelines.

Preparing for Your Pet’s Surgery

Consultation and Services

Initiate the surgical journey with a consultation, where your pet’s specific needs, such as spaying, neutering, orthopedic injuries, soft tissue repair, or tumor removal, will be discussed.

Informed Pet Parent

Before the appointment, compile a list of questions for the veterinary staff, ensuring you are fully informed about the procedure and post-operative care.

Health History

Share your pet’s health history, including allergies, previous surgeries, eating and drinking habits, and any existing health issues, to help the veterinarian assess the surgical risk.

Exploring Options

Discuss alternative options and potential duration of the surgery, hospital stay, and expected recovery time for your furry friend.

Getting Your Pet Ready for Surgery

Pre-Operation Instructions

Understand and follow the veterinarian’s pre-operation instructions meticulously, ensuring everyone in the family is aware of them.

Scheduled Observation

Plan the surgery for a time when someone can closely monitor your pet in the days following the procedure.

Day Before Preparations

Adhere to pre-operation instructions, including restrictions on food and water intake. Prevent any unauthorized snacks or drinks to maintain an empty stomach for anesthesia.

Have Any Questions?

If uncertainties arise while getting your pet ready for surgery. don’t hesitate to contact the veterinary practice for guidance.

Day of the Surgery

Medication Inquiry

Confirm whether your pet should take regular medications on the surgery day.

Timely Arrival

Arrive on time for the surgery, and if your pet is difficult to catch, consider confining them the night before for a stress-free departure.

Calm Demeanor

Animals pick up on human emotions, so maintaining a calm demeanor will help ease your pet’s anxiety.

Post-operative Care at Home

Confined Recovery

Understand if your pet needs confinement and for how long to prevent excessive activity during recovery.

Medication Administration

Comprehend the medication requirements and ensure you can administer them effectively, whether through direct intake or mixing with food.

Suture or Staple Removal

Determine if a follow-up visit is necessary for suture or staple removal and whether a protective collar (cone of shame) is required.

Signs of Complications

Learn the signs of potential complications and monitor your pet closely during the recovery period.

Temperature Monitoring

Familiarize yourself with the normal temperature range for your pet and the process of monitoring it.

Facilitating Your Pet's Recovery

Though surgery may pose challenges for both you and your pet, rest assured that they are receiving top-notch care. If uncertainties arise or you notice any issues, don’t hesitate to contact the veterinary practice for guidance.

Think your pet might need surgery?

Get in touch with us.