Whether performing a routine surgery or an emergency procedure, you can have confidence that the doctors and staff at Vine Animal Hospital will work hard to ensure each procedure is thorough, complete with the utmost expertise, and is as stress-free as possible for you and your pet.

At Vine Animal Hospital, we fully understand the decision to allow your pet to undergo surgery is never easy. To that end, we are happy to answer any questions regarding your pet’s surgery. In fact, a pre-surgical consultation is an essential part of the process. Additionally, our medical staff is happy to provide you with information on postoperative care to ensure a rapid return to your companion’s happy, healthy self.

Before your pet undergoes any surgical procedure, a thorough examination takes place. This exam includes a pre-surgical blood screen, which, along with your pet’s anesthetic history, breed, preexisting conditions, and age, will be used to determine a unique anesthesia protocol. These tests have the added benefit of establishing a baseline for the comparison of future blood tests, should your pet require any.

For most surgical procedures, anesthesia is required. While under anesthesia, your pet is continuously monitored by our staff and specialized anesthesia monitoring technology. Your pet’s blood pressure, heart rate, respiratory rate, body temperature, and oxygen level are all tracked during surgery. We also use a temperature-controlled operating table to assist in maintaining constant body temperature during the procedure.

Just as with humans, pain has many negative effects on pets that go beyond physical discomfort. Pain after surgery can slow healing and worsen diseases like arthritis. Because our companion friends don’t understand why they are experiencing pain, pain can cause behavioral issues and interfere with the bond between you and your pet.

To minimize your pet’s discomfort, we typically use a combination of local anesthetics, NSAIDs, and narcotic pain relievers. The exact protocol is tailored to each animal and depends on a number of factors determined by the pre-surgery exam and during the procedure.

The amount of time your pet will need to monitored after surgery varies. In some cases, animals will need to be monitored overnight; in others, they can be sent home the same day. When your pet is discharged, our doctors will provide you with information on proper home care after surgery. Often, your pet will be prescribed medication; in this case, we will explain how and when to administer it. We will also be available to answer questions after your pet arrives home. Contact us at (770) 696-5668 with any questions or concerns following surgery, and we will be more than happy to help you.