Preparing Your Pet for Surgery

It’s natural for every pet owner to have some anxiety when they learn their pet needs surgery. Whether it is for a routine neutering procedure or a more complex surgery, knowing what to expect will help calm your nerves.

On the day of surgery, our Hamilton Road Animal Hospital veterinarians will run blood tests, possibly take x-rays (depending on the procedure planned), administer IV anesthesia and monitor vital signs. These three tips will help you reduce stress for you and your pet before and after surgery.

Routine and Non-Urgent Surgery Guidelines

Our veterinarians are committed to protecting the health of all of our patients. To protect against cross-infection during and after surgery, animals coming into the surgical ward must be up-to-date with their vaccinations. We may require immunization records or your permission to vaccinate your pet for rabies, distemper, and bordetella (kennel cough) before admission. We may test for heart worms and, if necessary, treat external parasites.

1. Hold food and water. Reaction to anesthesia may activate the gag reflex, causing your pet to vomit. To prevent pets from aspirating or inhaling vomit, most animals should fast overnight before surgery. Diabetic animals and young kittens or puppies may need a small morning meal. Talk to our vet about whether to administer routine medications at home and how much water your pet needs to stay properly hydrated.
2. Prepare a safe place to confine your pet, a kennel, soft bedding, or another designated area in your home, after surgery and ask when to resume regular feeding schedules.
3. Ask questions. The more you know, the less anxious you will be. Being prepared means your pet will also be more comfortable on the day of surgery.

If it’s time to schedule a routine procedure, or your pet is exhibiting signs of injury, call our Hamilton Road Animal Hospital (614-470-5964) to schedule an evaluation appointment. Keeping current on your pet’s vaccinations is an excellent preparedness measure. Is your pet in need of vaccinations or an evaluation?