Thank You for choosing Alta Vista Veterinary Hospital to spay or neuter your pet.


We strongly recommend that patients presented for elective (spay and neuter) surgery are current on all vaccinations. For dogs this would be vaccinations for Distemper and Parvovirus preferrably at least one week prior to the scheduled surgery. Dogs should be at least 17 weeks old. If not vaccinated here, proof of vaccination is required. These vaccines are administered as a part of all puppy vaccination series.





We have provided you will all the paperwork and information to help you understand what to expect on the day of surgery.
Please download, complete, and return the appropriate form for your pet.

New Client Information Form

Surgical Authorization for Dogs



Surgical Authorization for Cats



Dog History Form

Cat History Form

SPAY/NEUTER BENEFITS:

DOGS:
Male:
The normal behavior of an un-neutered dog is often incompatible with being a household pet. Intact dogs tend to wander from home, seeking a mate or defending their territory. This puts them at risk for being hit by a car or being injured in a
dogfight. Urine marking and some types of aggression are more pronounced in un-neutered dogs as well. Although neutering may not entirely eliminate these behaviors, it can diminish them by 50-90%.

Intact male dogs suffer from a high incidence of inflammation and enlargement of the prostate, as well as testicular tumors. Older dogs commonly develop swollen and infected prostate glands. These conditions are painful and can interfere with urination, defecation and cause other problems. After neutering, the prostate shrinks considerably. Tumors of the testicles, common in older intact male dogs, are eliminated entirely.

Female:
Unspayed female dogs usually go through two heat periods each year. During her heat period, your female dog may drip blood. She will also make every effort to sneak out to find a mate. As a result, she is at high risk for being hit by a car.
Unspayed female dogs suffer from a high incidence of mammary tumors, false pregnancies, uterine infections, and reproductive cancers. Breast tumors are the most common type of cancer in dogs. One out of every four unspayed dogs will get breast cancer, and half of the tumors are malignant. Unspayed dogs are also prone to pyometra, a life-threatening infection of the uterus. Spaying removes the possibility of diseases of the ovaries and uterus, and comes greatly decreases the development of mammary tumors, especially if done before the first heat cycle.



CATS:

Female:
Unspayed female cats can go through several heats in one year. Cats are induced ovulators, so they do not actually ovulate, until there is mating with a male cat.. During her heat period, your female cat may be much more vocal and have increased activity. The cat may roll around or stand with her rear up in the air. She will also make every effort to sneak out to find a mate. As a result, she is at high risk for being hit by a car.

Unspayed female cats suffer from a high incidence of mammary tumors, false pregnancies, uterine infections, and reproductive cancers. Spaying your cat greatly reduces the risks of these cancers. It has been said that it may be beneficial to let your cat produce one litter of kittens before she is spayed; however, this is not true.


Male:
The normal behavior of an un-neutered cat is often incompatible with being a household pet. Intact cats tend to wander from home, seeking a mate or defending their territory. This puts them at risk for being hit by a car or being injured in a fight. Urine marking and some types of aggression are more pronounced in un-neutered cats as well. Although neutering may not entirely eliminate these behaviors, it can diminish them by 50-90%. Since un-neutered male cats are more prone to get in cat fights. They are more susceptible to the deadly Feline Leukemia and FIV viruses.

INCLUDED IN THE BASIC SPAY / NEUTER FEE:

•Presurgical Examination
•Anesthesia
•Spay / Neuter Procedure Itself & Surgical Supplies Required
•Surgical Recovery & Suture Removal (If Required) In 10 Days



OPTIONIAL PROCEDURES AT TIME OF SURGERY:


The basic quoted fee includes all of the above. This minimal procedure package is offered to make spaying/neutering affordable for everyone possible. Additionally, there are several optional services that are highly recommended for your pet’s increased safety & comfort. The additional recommended services include:
•Preanesthetic blood work*
•Intravenous catheter and fluids*
•Pain Management
•Elizabethan Collar

*These procedure are required if your pet is 7 years or older.
These services are offered as a package, or may be requested individually.


1. Preanesthetic Profile

We offer a pre-anesthetic blood profile at our hospital before the procedure on the day of the surgery. This blood panel requires a small amount of blood and takes about 15 minutes to get the results. The blood screen will provide us with some information on your pet’s cell count, kidney, heart, and liver functions. This information is just a precaution to help ensure the safety of your pet. The blood panel can also be used as a baseline if your pet ever becomes sick in the future.

Please click here to watch a video about preanesthetic testing


2. Intravenous catheter and fluids

An intravenous catheter (IV) is typically placed in the leg of your pet. The area to place the catheter is prepared by shaving a small area and preparing that area with an aseptic betadine solution. The IV allows for direct access to a vein in case an emergency arises during surgery. The IV also allows for your pet to be on Normasol or Lactated Ringers while under anesthesia. Since anesthesia can cause a drop in your pet’s blood pressure, fluid therapy helps to regulate the blood pressure. It is important to maintain blood pressure in order to make sure all the tissues and organs have proper blood flow.

3. Pain Management

Pets, like humans, all have a different tolerance for pain. Some pets who do not receive additional pain management are happy and wagging there tails when the leave after surgery. We do not want your pet in pain therefore we offer 3 types of pain management packages.

Package #1: This package includes three types of pain management.
1)A narcotic injectable pain medication given around the time of anesthesia which aids in decreasing pain for 4-12 hours.
2)An anti-inflammatory pain medication given around the time of anesthesia which aids in decreasing pain for up to 24 hours.
3)Oral pain medication given for 3-7 days after the surgery once the injectable medications have worn off.

Package #2: This is a narcotic pain injection that can provide up to 12 hours of pain relief after surgery.

Package #3: This is for the oral pain medication that can be given to the pet for 3-7 days after surgery.

Please click here to watch a video about Pain Management


4. Elizabethan Collar

The ELIZABETHAN COLLAR is a special type of restraint device which looks like a lampshade. It is secured around the pet’s head/neck to help prevent the pet from licking, chewing, or scratching until healing is complete. Your pet may harm themself by rubbing, scratching, or chewing their wounds, bandages, or surgical incisions.
It is a common misconception that a pet’s saliva helps to heal a wound. In reality, the abrasive action of the tongue usually makes matters worse rather than better and slows down the healing process.

Pets can eat, drink, and sleep with the collar on. After an initial 1-2 hour period of strange behavior, most pets accept the collar without further concern. The plastic collar can be cleaned by wiping with a wet cloth. The collar can be removed for cleaning but otherwise should be left on the pet at all times.

After the problem has resolved and the collar is not needed, do NOT throw it away. Keep it for future use. Pets routinely develop problems where excessive licking aggravates the condition. Using the collar to prevent additional trauma to the irritated area can often successfully treat skin rashes at home. To save the collar, simply remove the long plastic strap that is threaded through the two ends of the collar to make the cone shape. The collar can then be laid flat in the bottom of a drawer for convenient storage. The cost for an elizabethan collar is no more than $13.00.

THE DAY BEFORE SURGERY:

Please be sure that your pet has no food after 10pm on the evening before the surgery. Please allow your pet to drink water.


THE DAY OF SURGERY:

•Exercise your pet before coming in, as activity will be restricted for the next several days.
•Please drop your pet off in the morning before 8:30am.
•Please be sure to allow 15-20 minutes to admit your pet for surgery so that we may address any questions you may have and have all the paperwork together.
•Be sure to tell us about any concerns you may have about your pet before surgery.
•Ask questions! We want to make sure you understand everything about your pet’s surgery.


WHAT TO EXPECT WHILE YOUR PET IS HERE:

Once you leave your pet for surgery we will begin preparing your pet for surgery. A temperature, pulse, and respiration will be taken and the doctor will perform a physical examination on your pet. We will perform all preanesthetic bloodwork, intravenous catheter, and fluids. Your pet will then rest comfortably until it is time for surgery. We typically do 8-10 surgeries in a day. Once your pet is in recovery we will call you to inform you about the surgery and establish a convenient time for discharge. At the time of discharge a technician will carefully review home care instructions and answer all of your questions.


WHAT TO EXPECT AFTER SURGERY

Your pet has just undergone surgery. While welcoming him home, there are some things to remember to assure a speedy recovery.

Anesthesia
Your pet may not feel himself for the next 12 to 24 hours. Keep him in a warm, quiet area, away from other pets, where he can rest and is not likely to injure himself. An airline kennel or a small room is ideal.
Never feed or give water to a dog that still seems groggy. Once your pet seems awake and alert, take things slow. Some anesthetics can cause nausea. Introduce water first. If all goes well, a small amount of food can be offered a few hours later. Wait until the next day to return to his normal feeding schedule.

Exercise
Your pet should be kept quiet the dsy of surgery. During the next week, his exercise should be restricted moderately. Short leash walks are OK unless advised otherwise. Discourage vigorous running, jumping, or rough play. Avoid leaving him unattended with other pets with whom he normally rough-houses. Excessive exercise after surgery can cause swelling and delayed healing.

Environment and Grooming
Keep your pet in a warm place today and tonight, preferably indoors. Make sure his bedding and the area where he lives are especially clean and dry.
Because the incision should stay dry, do not bathe your pet or allow him to swim for at least one week. If the area around his incision appears soiled, you can carefully wipe his skin with warm water and a mild antiseptic soap, then rinse by wiping with plain water. Avoid getting soap or water directly on the incision.

Self-Trauma
A surgical incision may feel sore, itchy, or just different to your pet. His natural instinct is to lick, scratch or chew. If you notice him bothering his incision, he might need an Elizabethan collar. The Elizabethan collar should be worn at all times when you are not watching him, its amazing how quickly your pet can pull out a stitch when you turn your back.

Monitoring
Check your pets incision daily. Notify our office if you see any increase in swelling, discharge, bleeding, redness, or if you think stitches might be missing.
If your pet has a cast or bandage, check it daily to be sure its dry, clean, and has no foul odor. Bandages can be kept clean and dry during trips outdoors by putting a plastic bag over the limb and taping it in place.

Medications
If your pet has medication, thoroughly read and follow all label instructions. If you have any questions, our office can help. Always use the medication for the full duration prescribed, even if your pet seems better sooner.
Getting Help
Never hesitate to call our office if you think your dog may be having a problem. Your diligence may catch a complication before it becomes serious.

ELECTIVE PROCEDURES TO BE DONE AT THE SAME TIME OF SURGERY:

“An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.”
While your pet is here for surgery we would also like to make preventative health care recommendations. These preventative measures are recommendations and not requirements in order to provide your pet with the best care possible. The only requirement is that all dogs are vaccinated for Distemper, Parvovirus, Adenovirus-2, and Parainfluenza.



Heartworm, Lyme’s, Tick Fever Combination Test

Although we do live in this unbearable heat three months out of the entire year, pesky mosquitoes, fleas, and ticks find ways to get into our air-conditioned homes. Your cat and dog are the perfect free rides into the human world. But what you may not have known is that these creatures harbor life-threatening diseases that are easily prevented. This combination test is recommended for your pet annually. The following will give you a basic overview of three very common diseases associated with these pesky critters.

Lyme's Disease
Lyme disease is a bacterial disease spread by ticks. While it is most prevalent in the Northeastern U.S., it has been found in all but a few states as well as other parts of the world. The name has nothing to do with fruit, but comes from the place where the disease was first reported, Lyme, Connecticut. Lyme Disease affects people and dogs. It is rare in other domestic animals.
Lyme disease is caused by the bacteria Borrelia burgdorferi. It is transmitted to people and dogs by the bite of ticks, most commonly the black-legged deer tick. Wooded, brushy areas outdoors are likely locations for these ticks. The tick lives by attaching to a host and feeding on blood. While attached, it can spread Lyme disease through its saliva. Research has shown that in most cases, the disease is not transmitted until the tick has been attached for 48 to 72 hours. Lyme disease is not spread directly from one person to another or from a dog to a person.



Heartworm Disease
Over the last couple of years, we have seen a significant rise in the number of heartworm cases diagnosed in Arizona. This is likely due to the increase in mosquitos we have seen. Heartworm Disease is a potentially life-threatening parasitic infection. Found worldwide, it infects wild and domestic dogs, sea lions, ferrets, and cats.

Heartworm Disease is caused by a worm, Dirofilaria immitis, and spread by mosquitoes. When a mosquito feeds on an infected animal, usually a dog, it ingests microscopic larvae in the blood. These microfilaria mature in the mosquito for about two weeks. When the mosquito bites a susceptible animal the
infectious larvae are injected into its tissues. They migrate through the animal’s body, maturing into adult worms over a period of months. The adult worms live in the heart and major blood vessels where they reproduce to create new microfilaria. The time from infection to appearance of microfilaria is about six months.

Dogs are highly susceptible to heartworm infection, while it is much less common in other domestic animals such as cats and ferrets.

Fortunately, effective preventive medications are available to protect dogs, cats, and ferrets. Most are given monthly and can be started as early as 4-6 weeks of age. Pets started on preventive medications before six months of age are tested after they have been on the medication for at least six months. Pets that begin heartworm prevention after six months of age should be tested before the preventive is given the first time, and again after six months. Annual retesting is recommended.

Please click on the following link to watch a video about heartworm disease
www.americanheartwormsociety.org


Ehrlichia Canis, Ehrlichiosis, Tick Fever
Ehrlichiosis is a disease spread from the bite of a tick. The brown dog tick is the primary host of this serious disease, which was first seen in military dogs returning to the US from the Vietnam War. The organism that is carried by ticks and causes the Ehrlichiosis infection is called a rickettisa, which is similar to bacteria. This disease should be taken very seriously as untreated cases can result in death.


There are three phases of the Ehrlichiosis infection. The acute phase occurs in the first two to four weeks of infection. Fever, weight loss, nervous system anomalies, respiratory distress, bleeding disorders and other symptoms can be seen during this initial stage. The second phase of the disease is referred to as the subclinical stage. The symptoms that are seen in the acute stage are normally not present in this stage and basically subside. Dogs that are infected may continue to shed the organism, they may totally eliminate the organism during this stage or they may progress to the chronic phase of the disease. Many of the symptoms present in the acute phase may return along with lameness, anemia, swollen limbs and blood clotting problems. Each progression from one phase to the next makes treating Ehrlichiosis more difficult and this is why early detection is very important for treatment to be successful.

The number one key is prevention. Consult your veterinarian for flea and tick control products, mow your lawns often, decrease exposure time by keeping your pet indoors, be aware of any and all water sources in the area that may be breeding grounds for mosquitoes.


Feline Leukemia/FIV Combination Test

We recommend annual testing if your cat is outdoors at anytime or if you are introducing a new cat to your household. We offer this testing and it takes only ten minutes for results. In the case that the result is negative we offer vaccines to protect your cat against Feline Leukemia.

Feline Leukemia (FeLV) is an incurable immunosuppressive disease that causes cancers and makes cats extremely vulnerable to other illnesses. Although infected cats can remain healthy for several years, it is eventually fatal in most cases.

Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) is another incurable immunosuppressive disease, sometimes called Feline AIDS. Infected cats often appear healthy for years, but many suffer from chronic recurrent illnesses and can develop cancers. Cats can die from the FIV virus, much as humans can died from HIV. FIV is usually transmitted by cat bites. Therefore, the best prevention is to keep the cat away from outdoor stray cats or cats know to be positive for the FIV virus.




Vaccinations

Just like people, pets need to be vaccinated against diseases. Vaccines are intended to trigger protective immune responses in pets in order to protect them from future disease infections.

FELINE:

Vaccinations can protect your cat against serious infectious illnesses. The vaccines we recommend for cats are Panleukopenia, Feline Herpesvirus-1, Feline Calicivirus, Chlamydophila and Rabies. The first three are usually combined in a single injection that is given to kittens starting at 6-8 weeks of age and boostered every 3-4 weeks until at least 12 weeks of age. Adult cats receive two doses initially, given 3-4 weeks apart. Thereafter, the combination vaccine is repeated every 1-3 years. The Rabies vaccination is given first at twelve weeks of age and then once a year.

Feline Panleukopenia, or Feline Distemper, is a serious gastrointestinal disease. Symptoms resemble Parvovirus in dogs and include fever, lethargy, vomiting, diarrhea, dehydration, loss of appetite, miscarriage in pregnant cats, and nervous system damage in newborns. It is highly contagious and commonly fatal in non-vaccinated cats. Panleukopenia is rare in properly vaccinated cats.

Feline Herpesvirus-1 (Feline Rhinotracheitis Virus) and Feline Calicivirus cause respiratory illness. Non-vaccinated cats may get severely ill or even die. These viruses are extremely contagious. Vaccination gives incomplete protection, but vaccinated cats get only mild symptoms if they get sick at all.

Rabies is an incurable disease of the nervous system that is nearly always fatal. Worse yet, it is transmitted between most animal species, including humans. Although rabies transmission requires direct body fluid contact, even indoor pets can be at risk since sick wild animals may enter homes. Regular rabies vaccination is mandated by law in many areas.

Feline Leukemia (FeLV)is transmitted by close, direct contact between cats, so vaccination is most important for cats that go outside or otherwise contact potentially infected cats. Cats should be tested for FeLV before vaccination, since the vaccine doesnt help cats that already have the virus. Two doses of vaccine are given 3-4 weeks apart, as early as eight weeks of age. Annual revaccination is recommended.

Feline Chlamydophila causes a severe eye infection. Its spread by direct contact and is common in places where large numbers of cats are housed together. Vaccination is recommended for cats at risk.




CANINE:

The vaccines that we require prior to hospitalization for the elective surgery are Canine Distemper, Canine Adenovirus-2 and Parvovirus. This vaccine is given starting between the ages of 6-8 weeks and is continued every 3 weeks until the puppy is at least 16 weeks old. Thereafter, the combination vaccine is repeated every 1-3 years. Rabies vaccine is not required prior to the surgery day, however we can administer it on the day of the surgery. Rabies vaccination is given first once the puppy is 12 weeks of age and boostered one year later. After that, the Rabies vaccine is repeated every three years.

Canine Distemper is a serious, highly contagious disease. It weakens the immune system, leaving infected dogs vulnerable to other infections. Symptoms include fever, coughing, green nasal and eye discharge, vomiting, diarrhea, dehydration, loss of appetite, thickened toe pads, muscle twitching, seizures, and blindness. Puppies are most susceptible. Distemper is fatal in up to 90% of cases. For the dogs that recover from the disease, most have serious permanent neurologic problems. Fortunately, the vaccination is very effective if given prior to the dog’s exposure.

There are two forms of Canine Adenovirus, CAV-1 and CAV-2. Vaccination with CAV-2 provides protection against both. CAV-1 is the cause of Infectious Canine Hepatitis, which damages the liver. CAV-2 is one of several organisms that can cause Infectious Canine Tracheobronchitis, or Kennel Cough. Just as you would expect, the main sign is a persistent cough. Its spread mainly in places where large numbers of dogs are in close proximity, such as kennels, shelters, grooming facilities, or dog shows.

Canine Parvovirus (CPV) is a highly contagious disease affecting the digestive system. It can also weaken the immune system and damage the heart. Signs include fever, lethargy, vomiting, bloody diarrhea, dehydration and loss of appetite. It can be fatal, especially in puppies born to un-vaccinated mothers. Parvovirus treatment usually requires hospitalization.

Rabies is an incurable disease of the nervous system that is nearly always fatal. Worse yet, it is transmitted between most animal species, including humans. Although rabies transmission requires direct body fluid contact, even indoor pets can be at risk since sick wild animals may enter homes. Regular rabies vaccination is mandated by law in most states.


The Kennel Cough Complex, also known as infectious tracheobronchitis, is a treatable respiratory illness. It can be caused by CAV-2, Canine Parainfluenza, and Bordetella bronchiseptica, mycoplasma organisms and possibly other viruses. The combination vaccine normally given to dogs includes CAV-2 and Parainfluenza. Dogs at high risk of exposure to kennel cough can receive a more potent vaccine, given as nose drops or as an injection that protects against Bordetella as well. This is recommended for dogs that are boarded, groomed professionally, or taken to dog shows.

Leptospirosis is a serious illness that damages the kidneys and liver and can be transmitted to people. Unfortunately, the vaccine provides only moderate protection and must be boostered annually. In the past it was believed Lepto vaccines were connected to a higher incidence of allergic reactions. Studies have now shown that the greatest risk of allergic reactions is seen in small breed dogs receiving multiple vaccines at once. We see very few allergic reactions with our vaccines.



Microchip Identification Implant

There are many ways your pet can get lost. A collar and tag are always recommended but can come off. A microchip is recommended for this reason. The microchip is about the size of a grain of rice and is implanted by injection of the chip using a needle. It is injected under the skin between the shoulder blades. If your pet ever gets lost and is taken to any shelter or veterinarian the first thing that they do is scan it for a microchip. The owner information is linked to the microchip. We have personally reunited several families with there lost pet who without a microchip this may not have been possible. We strongly encourage everyone to get a microchip for your pet!
Please click here to watch a video about Advances in Pet Identification

Ear Cleaning

Proper cleaning is necessary to remove excess wax and exudate that is present and this often is best done under sedation or anesthesia. This allows the removal of all debris/build up as well as a chance to inspect the entire external canal and ear drum.

Ear Mites

Ear mites can be found in the ear canals of your pet. They are contagious and spread easily with pets in the same house. Ear Mites are visible and look like very small black dots. Your pet may also shake their head or scratch their ears frequently. Ear Mites can be treated with medication.

Fecal

Internal parasites live inside the pet’s body and feed on the blood and protein. The most common internal parasites are hookworms, roundworms, tapeworms, and whipworms. Some of these can be transmitted from your pet to people! We recommend a stool sample to be checked every 6-12 months and anytime there is unexplained diarrhea.


Hernia

A hernia is an opening in the abdominal wall that allows intestines or fat to pass through. The different types of hernias can allow the intestines of fat to pass through to a layer just beneath the skin or even to the chest cavity. A hernia can seem like it is not a big deal to your pet but can be a problem if not repaired.

Remove Warts/Skin Growth

Many pets can develop skin growths. Many in which are fatty tumors that are called Lipomas. To ensure that it is a Lipoma and nothing more we like to perform to look at the fluid in the growth under the microscope or send some of the sample to the Lab. Lipomas are benign tumors and can be left or removed. We typically recommend removal if the lipomas are causing a problem for your pet.


Extract Deciduous Teeth (“Baby” teeth)

Just like human children our pets loose their baby teeth at about 6 months of age to make room for their adult teeth. Sometimes they don't fall out and if not extracted surgically can cause dental problems.


Dewclaw removal

Dewclaws are the extra toes that are found on our pets. Typically dewclaws are the claws that are just above the joint of the foot. They can be attached or unattached.
"Attached" dewclaws are not as likely necessary to be removed as they are typically attached as the other claws on the foot are.
"Unattached" dewclaws are usually dangling and may be more likely to catch on something and tear.
It is your decision if you want to leave or remove your pet's dewclaws.

Dental Care

Pets have teeth too! The only difference with pets is that they are not able to brush and floss their own teeth. Good
oral health is an important part of good general health for your pet. By the time most dogs and cats are 1 year old, they have some degree of gingivitis. Prevention is the key to
maintaining healthy teeth and gums.

Dogs should mainly be offered dry food. The firm crunchy nature aids in reduction and removal of plaque and stimulates the gums to prevent gingivitis. For cats, canned food is beneficial to the urinary health, so dry food alone is not recommended. Some cats develop more tartar than others and require more frequent cleaning. Good oral hygiene can slow the progression of dental disease. Feel free to ask one of our staff members how you can care for your pet’s teeth!
Without good oral hygiene, gingivitis (inflammation of the gums) develops. This is the first stage of dental disease. With progression, there is breakdown in the gum tissue attachment and pockets develop below the gum line where bacterial infection sets in. This is called periodontal disease. Over time the bone becomes weak, the teeth can become loose and need extraction. Also, bacteria associated with periodontal disease can spread to other parts of the body and cause infections in the heart, liver, kidneys and lungs. Because periodontal disease is below the gum line, a professional teeth cleaning under anesthesia is the only way to properly treat periodontal disease.
Signs of oral and dental diseases in dogs and cats: Bad breath, also called halitosis, loose teeth or teeth that are discolored or covered in tartar, disliking having the mouth touched, drooling, bleeding from the mouth and loss of appetite.