Pet general surgery is a critical aspect of veterinary medicine, covering a range of surgical procedures designed to address health concerns and enhance the overall well-being of our beloved best friends. From routine spaying and neutering to more complex surgeries like tumour removals or orthopaedic procedures, pet general surgery can not only save their lives, but helps keep them healthy and happy to improve the quality of their time here as well.
Several common pet surgeries are routinely performed to address various health concerns in dogs, cats, and other pets. Some are routine procedures most pet’s will have. And others are specialised surgeries to address a specific problem. Rosebery Vet is a modern veterinary facility offering comprehensive pet care services, including surgery. Our team of highly skilled vets, carefully selected for their expertise, is equipped to perform a variety of surgical procedures aimed at improving or saving the lives of sick or injured pets. Our state-of-the-art hospital features advanced anaesthetic and surgical facilities, ensuring we can accommodate a broad spectrum of procedures.
With a focus on ensuring the well-being of your pet, our team excels in caring for animals under sedation and anaesthesia during surgical procedures. We boast experienced and well-trained staff, along with high-quality monitoring equipment to enhance the safety of our patients. Operating within our well-equipped, in-house surgical theatre, we offer a range of surgical interventions, from basic to advanced, to address the diverse needs of our pet patients.
The Most Common Pet Surgeries
Spaying (Ovariohysterectomy) and Neutering (Orchiectomy):
Spaying involves the removal of a female animal’s ovaries and uterus, while neutering involves the removal of a male animal’s testicles. These procedures are common for preventing unwanted pregnancies, reducing the risk of certain reproductive organ-related diseases, and addressing behavioural issues.
Dental Procedures:
Dental surgeries, such as tooth extractions or dental cleanings, are common in pets. Dental health is crucial for overall well-being, and these procedures help prevent and treat dental issues, including periodontal disease.
Tumour Removals:
Pets can develop both benign and malignant tumours. Surgical removal is often necessary to address tumours, and the procedure may involve the excision of the mass and surrounding tissues to ensure complete removal.
Orthopaedic Surgeries:
Orthopaedic surgeries are performed to address musculoskeletal issues in pets. Common procedures include the repair of fractures, cruciate ligament repair, and hip surgeries such as hip dysplasia procedures.
Ear and Eye Surgeries:
Pets may require surgical intervention for issues affecting the ears or eyes. This could include procedures to correct eyelid abnormalities, remove foreign bodies, or address chronic ear infections.
Gastrointestinal Surgeries:
Gastrointestinal surgeries may be necessary to address issues such as foreign body obstructions, gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV or bloat), or to remove masses or tumours affecting the digestive tract.
Caesarean Section (C-Section):
In cases where a pregnant animal is unable to give birth naturally, a caesarian section may be performed to safely deliver the offspring. This is often necessary when there are complications during labour.
Cystotomy (Bladder Surgery):
Some pets may develop bladder stones or other conditions that require surgical intervention. Cystotomy involves opening the bladder to remove stones or address other bladder-related issues.
Laceration Repair:
Accidents and injuries can result in lacerations that require surgical repair. This may involve stitching or suturing the wound to promote proper healing and prevent infection.
Limb Amputations:
In cases of severe injury, cancer, or certain congenital abnormalities, limb amputations may be recommended. This procedure is done to improve the pet’s quality of life and alleviate pain or discomfort.
Hernia Repair:
Hernias, which involve the protrusion of an organ or tissue through an opening or weakened area in the body, may require surgical repair. This is common in young animals with congenital hernias or as a result of trauma.
Skin Mass Removal:
Skin masses, including cysts, lipomas, and tumours, are common in pets. Surgical removal may be necessary for diagnostic purposes or to address potential health concerns.
What’s Involved In General Pet Surgery?
1. Pre-surgical Examination: Assessing the Foundation of Health
Before your pet undergoes general surgery, we, like all vet surgeons, conduct a thorough pre-surgical examination. We must assess the pet’s overall health, taking into consideration factors such as age, breed, and existing medical conditions. This examination serves as the foundation for a successful surgical outcome, helping us identify and address any potential complications that might arise during or after the surgery. By conducting a comprehensive pre-surgical examination, veterinarians can tailor their approach to the specific needs of the individual pet, ensuring a more precise and effective surgical experience.
2. Anaesthesia: Navigating the Path to Pain-Free Surgery
The proper administration of anaesthesia is a critical step in pet general surgery, allowing for surgical procedures to go ahead without causing distress or pain to the animal. Anaesthesia protocols are carefully selected based on the type of surgery and the pet’s health status. Whether it’s a routine spaying/neutering procedure or a more intricate surgery, the use of anaesthesia ensures pets remain unconscious and pain-free throughout the procedure. Modern veterinary anaesthesia practices prioritise safety, with continuous monitoring of vital signs to promptly address any changes in the pet’s condition during surgery.
3. Monitoring Vital Signs: Safeguarding the Pet’s Well-being
During surgery, close monitoring of vital signs is essential to safeguard the pet’s well-being. Veterinary professionals keep a vigilant eye on parameters such as heart rate, respiratory rate, blood pressure, and oxygen saturation. This real-time monitoring allows for immediate intervention in case of any irregularities, ensuring that the pet’s physiological functions remain stable throughout the surgery. This attention to vital signs exemplifies the commitment of our surgeons to the safety and comfort of their animal patients.
4. Sterile Environment: Mitigating Infection Risks
Maintaining a sterile surgical environment is essential to prevent postoperative infections. We and other veterinary surgeons adhere to strict sterile techniques, including wearing sterile gowns, gloves, and masks. Surgical instruments and equipment are also meticulously sterilised to minimise the risk of introducing harmful microorganisms into the surgical site. A sterile environment not only reduces the likelihood of infections but also promotes optimal healing and recovery for the pet post-surgery.
5. Incision and Surgery: Precision in Procedure
The surgical phase involves making a carefully planned incision at the appropriate site, depending on the nature of the surgery. Whether it’s a routine spaying procedure or a more intricate abdominal surgery, precision is key. Surgeons follow established protocols to ensure the accurate execution of the surgical procedure, addressing the specific health concern while minimising trauma to surrounding tissues. This phase demands a combination of surgical skill, knowledge of anatomy, and a commitment to the ethical treatment of animals.
6. Wound Closure: Stitching the Path to Recovery
Following the completion of the necessary surgical procedures, the wound closure phase begins. Surgeons use various techniques, including sutures or other closure methods, to secure the incision site. The goal is to provide a secure closure that promotes optimal healing while minimising scarring. The choice of closure method may vary based on the type of surgery and the individual needs of the pet. A well-executed wound closure sets the stage for a smoother recovery process and reduces the risk of complications such as infections or dehiscence.
7. Postoperative Care: Nurturing Recovery
The postoperative care phase is a critical aspect of pet general surgery, influencing the success of the surgical intervention and the overall well-being of the pet. After surgery, the pet is carefully transitioned to a recovery area where it wakes up from anaesthesia. Postoperative care may involve pain management strategies, administration of antibiotics to prevent infections, and close monitoring for any signs of complications. The duration and intensity of postoperative care vary depending on the complexity of the surgery and the individual needs of the pet.
8. Follow-up Care: Sustaining Well-being Beyond Surgery
A comprehensive follow-up care plan is an integral component of the pet general surgery process. This plan includes scheduled follow-up appointments with the veterinarian to assess the progress of the pet’s recovery. During these follow-up visits, veterinarians may conduct additional diagnostic tests, adjust medications, and provide guidance on activities and diet. The collaboration between pet owners and veterinary professionals during the follow-up care phase is crucial in ensuring the sustained well-being of the pet and addressing any lingering concerns.
9. Client Education: Empowering Pet Owners
Effective client education is key to a successful postoperative recovery. Pet owners receive detailed instructions on how to care for their pets at home, including guidance on administering medications, monitoring for signs of complications, and adhering to any activity restrictions. This educational component empowers pet owners to actively participate in their pet’s recovery process, fostering a collaborative relationship between veterinarians and pet caregivers.
10. Diagnostic Imaging: Guiding Surgical Precision
In some instances, diagnostic imaging such as X-rays or ultrasounds plays a pivotal role in pet general surgery. These imaging modalities offer insights into the internal structures, aiding veterinarians in diagnosing and understanding the nature of the health concern. Additionally, real-time imaging may be utilised during surgery to guide the surgeon with precision, especially in complex procedures such as orthopaedic surgeries or tumour removals. The integration of diagnostic imaging enhances the accuracy and effectiveness of surgical interventions.
Nurturing the Bond Between Pets and Their Human Companions
Pet general surgery is an important part of what we do that combines medical expertise, surgical skill, and compassionate care to enhance the lives of our animal companions. From pre-surgical examination postoperative care, every phase of the surgical journey is done to promote the health and well-being of pets. The collaboration between us veterinary professionals and our pet owners is crucial, with client education helping caregivers to actively contribute to their pet’s recovery. If you have any questions or concerns regarding general pet surgery, contact our friendly team for a consultation. Get in touch today!