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If your dog is in need of surgery, you may have many questions and concerns. As veterinarians, we understand that the thought of your pet undergoing surgery and anesthesia can be frightening, and that's why we're here to help you navigate the process. At North Powers Animal Hospital, our team of experienced veterinarians and highly trained patient care staff is dedicated to providing the best care for your pet and ensuring the best possible outcome. In this article, we will discuss what you need to know before your pet has surgery, the pre-surgery lab work that needs to be done, the specialists who may need to be involved, the safety measures taken while your pet is under anesthesia, the recovery process, and what you can do to help your pet heal at home.
What Do I Need to Know Before My Dog Has Surgery?
Before your dog has surgery, it's important to understand why the operation is necessary. Some surgeries are unavoidable due to accidents or severe health conditions, while others may be elective and non-life-threatening. Your doctor will discuss what options are available for your pet's specific condition and create a plan for recovery for your pet. Additionally, it's important for your pet to be properly prepared for surgery. Preparation may include withholding food and water for a certain period before the procedure, bathing your pet for good hygiene, creating a safe recovery space for your pet, and notifying the vet of any medication given 24 hours before surgery. Your pet also typically needs to be up to date on vaccinations at the time of elective surgery.
Will My Dog Need Lab Work Done Prior to Having Surgery?
Yes, pre-surgery lab work is an essential part of the process for dogs. This helps to identify any potential health issues that may complicate surgery or anesthesia. Lab testing is highly recommended for all dogs undergoing elective surgery, but is required for dogs undergoing surgery for emergency conditions and for dogs over the age of 6 years old. Blood tests can detect early signs of diseases, allowing veterinarians to address these issues before surgery, and helps us to choose medications and anesthesia types that reduce the risk of negative outcomes for your pet.
Typically, lab work includes a complete blood count (CBC) and blood chemistry tests, which evaluates kidney and liver function, blood sugar, protein levels, and sometimes even thyroid function. It's important for pet owners to understand that opting out of pre-anesthetic lab work to cut costs can potentially compromise their pet's health. Even if a pet appears healthy, the consequences of not performing these tests can be severe if an undetected condition is present.
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Does My Dog Need to See a Specialist for Their Surgery?
The need for a pet to see a specialist for surgery depends on several factors including the type of surgery, its complexity, and the pet's overall health condition. Our veterinarians bring decades of experience and training to address many types of surgical cases, including many kinds of cancer surgery, skin grafts, and trauma care. When the surgery involves complex, advanced, or uncommon operations such as orthopedic surgeries, it may be advisable to consult a board-certified veterinary surgeon. Their expertise and access to more specialized equipment heighten the success rate of the surgery. Your veterinarian will discuss your options to help you choose the best care for your pet. At North Powers Animal Hospital, we coordinate with board certified surgeons to offer some specialty procedures within our hospital, such as cruciate repair surgery (TPLO surgery) and fracture repair, so that your pet can stay with their home hospital team throughout their surgery and recovery.
What Will My Veterinarian Be Looking For In The Pre-Surgery Lab Work?
The pre-surgery lab work looks at several components of the pet's blood. The CBC evaluates red and white blood cells, platelets, and other parameters. These tests detect problems such as anemia (low red blood cell counts), evaluate the immune cells of the body to look for infections and inflammation, and tell us about risks for clotting issues within surgery. The chemistry test looks at levels of chemicals in the blood to assess organ function for the liver and kidneys, which help metabolize medications used in anesthesia. It also looks at blood sugar and protein levels, evaluates the balance of electrolytes, and looks at the balance of the thyroid. This helps the veterinarian determine how anesthesia may affect your pet. If any abnormalities are found, adjustments can be made to the treatment plan.
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Who Will Be Monitoring My Dog While Under Anesthesia?
The safety of your pet during surgery is paramount. A team of veterinary professionals works together to ensure the safety and comfort of your pet while under anesthesia. The patient care team records the patient's history, including information about any health issues, previous anesthetic episodes or surgeries, and medications. They also communicate effectively with the pet's caregiver to ensure patient safety and successful surgical outcomes. Your pet's heartbeat, breathing, body temperature, oxygen levels, and blood pressure are monitored by your pet's care team throughout surgery and their comfort levels and vitals are closely watched after surgery. North Powers Animal Hospital takes anesthesia safety seriously, with yearly training for patient care staff in anesthesia and CPR. Registered veterinary technicians and veterinarians are also required to undergo regular continuing education to ensure they are up to date on the best medical recommendations.
How Long Will My Dog Need To Recover After Having Surgery?
The recovery period after surgery can vary greatly among dogs, depending on factors such as the type of surgery, the dog's overall health, age, and the specific condition being treated. Typically, soft tissue surgeries take 2-3 weeks for recovery, but with orthopedic procedures, recovery happens in stages over several months. It's important to follow your vet's instructions carefully and monitor your pet's progress to ensure a successful recovery.
How Can I Help My Dog Recover at Home After Surgery?
Helping your pet recover at home after surgery is an important part of the process. Once you bring them home, it's essential to follow your vet's instructions regarding wound care, medication, feeding, and activity restrictions. You should provide your pet with a quiet and warm space to rest and ensure they have access to clean drinking water at all times. Additionally, it's important to keep bandages or incisions dry and clean and isolate your pet from other pets and children, to avoid the temptation to play more than is recommended. Finally, regular check-ups with the vet are essential for monitoring your pet's recovery process and addressing any potential complications timely.
Conclusion
Undergoing surgery is an intense process, both for pet owners and their pets. It is essential to understand the process and the safety measures taken to ensure your pet's well-being. If you live in or near Colorado Springs, CO, and are looking for quality pet care, come visit us at North Powers Animal Hospital where your pet is our priority. Contact us at (719) 212-1857 to set an appointment, or email us at [email protected]. Our staff would love to talk with you!