Surgeries are routinely performed on Tuesdays and Thursdays with admittance in the morning between 7:30 and 8:00 a.m. Spay and neuter patients typically spend one night in the hospital, whereas, declaws are performed on Tuesdays and generally spend two nights.

Concerns about the risks associated with anesthesia rank high among the most common reasons owners choose not to have their pet undergo surgery. However, today’s modern anesthetic drugs and improved monitoring technology have made surgery much safer than in the past. We provide continuous monitoring of pulse oximetry, blood pressure, pulse and respiration by a dedicated technician during all anesthetic procedures.

Spay (ovariohysterectomy) Surgery

• We recommend that small and medium sized dogs be spayed at least two weeks after their last vaccination and prior to their first heat cycle at six months of age. This will reduce the chance of having mammary cancer later in life.
• Large breed dogs should be spayed just prior to six months of age, before their first heat cycle to allow their joints to develop more fully, while still reducing the incidence of mammary cancer.
• Rottweilers and giant breed dogs that have higher incidence of bone cancer should wait until one year of age to be spayed, as earlier surgery may increase the risk of bone cancer.
• Kitten spays can be performed as early as two weeks following the last vaccination.

Neuter (orchiectomy) Surgery

• We advise small and medium sized dogs be neutered any time at least two weeks after their last vaccination.
• Large and giant breed dogs may benefit by waiting until skeletally mature at one year of age to neuter.
• Kitten neuters can be performed as early as two weeks following the last vaccination.

Cat Declaw Surgery

Successful outcome of this surgery is very dependent on the technique used. The approach that we use allows the patient to be comfortable, with normal use of the paws immediately after surgery. This surgery can be done at the same time as a spay or neuter.

Surgical Admissions – prior to surgery, typical instructions are as follows:

• A physical examination is done first to assess that the patient can safely undergo anesthesia
• Blood work is recommended for pets over eight years of age or pets with a history of disease
• Antibiotics are sometimes started and should be given as directed
• Food should be withheld for 12 hours prior to anesthesia (water is OK)
• Arrive at the hospital between 7:30 and 8:00 a.m. the morning of surgery
• Consent forms are signed prior to surgery
• Accurate contact information is obtained so that we may keep you informed of your pet’s progress
• A physical exam is done by the veterinarian immediately prior to inducing anesthesia
• Depth of anesthesia and the pet’s response is monitored continuously including heart and respiratory rates, blood oxygen levels, and blood pressure
• We will call you with a report after surgery is completed

Post-surgical instructions:

• Always follow your pet’s discharge instructions
• Monitor the incision for swelling and redness
• Take note of your pet’s appetite and water intake
• Maintain bandages and administer medications as instructed
• Return for follow-up as directed