How to Prepare Your Pet for Surgery

Preparing your animal companion for surgery can be pretty stressful. After all, your pet is part of your household, and you want to ensure he/she is as comfortable as possible. Whether it is a simple procedure like getting spayed or neutered or something more complex, you are likely to feel nervous. 

You will want to do everything possible to ensure the operation goes smoothly. Fortunately, you can take specific simple steps to set your pet up for success. Knowing how to prepare and what to expect can make the process easier for you and your animal companion. 

The Week Before the Surgery

One whole week might seem too early to start preparing your pet for surgery, but your vet might require additional tests before your pet goes under general anesthesia. These tests include ultrasounds, blood work, radiographs, and other diagnostics vital to the procedure’s success. 

It is also the perfect time to determine how you will get your pet to and from the pet hospital. If you bathe or groom your pet regularly, consider doing so a few days before surgery since your veterinarian will instruct you to keep the incision area dry following surgery.

The Night Before Surgery

Most surgical procedures require some form of anesthesia. Your veterinarian will probably ask you to withhold food from your furry friend for at least 12 hours before surgery. That is because general anesthesia affects the swallowing reflex, increasing the risk of vomiting during or after surgery. 

Your vet will also tell you whether your pet can take existing medications before the procedure. It would also help to ask about any postsurgical restrictions your animal friend will need. For example, you may need to confine your pet to a pen or small room to prevent too much movement. Your furry friend may also require additional bedding to remain comfortable during recovery. 

The Morning of the Surgery

Drop your pet off early, regardless of the surgery time. Your vet may perform several tests during this time and calculate the anesthesia required for the procedure. Also, your pet will likely get IV fluids and an IV catheter. 

Before you leave the clinic, be sure to leave a phone number in case your vet needs to reach you during the procedure. Also, the veterinary team will want to call you to inform you when to pick up your pet. 

Preoperative Care

When your furry friend arrives at the animal hospital for surgery, the vet will run any necessary tests. Sometimes, veterinarians give pets a sedative to calm them before surgery, place an IV catheter, and then start anesthesia. When your pet begins to wake up after surgery, a nurse will stay with him/her to ensure that your pet is pain-free and comfortable. 

Conclusion

Your vet will give you detailed postoperative care instructions. It is essential to follow them carefully to ensure proper healing and complete recovery. Watch for any unusual behavior or discomfort, and call your vet if you have any concerns. 

For more on pet surgery, visit Lakeville Family Pet Clinic in Lakeville, Minnesota. Call (952) 595-6500 to schedule an appointment today.