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

•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. 


While your pet is here:

Once you leave your pet for surgery we will begin preparing them 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. 

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, 602-277-1464 if you think your dog may be having a problem. Your diligence may catch a complication before it becomes serious.