What You Need to Know About Dog Surgery
Veterinary surgery is just one of the 22 veterinary specialties acknowledged in the US, Canada, and Europe. Those wishing to become board-certified must undertake a one-year clinical internship and three years of intensive training in a residency program. Under the surgical specialization are subspecialties that cater to different areas.
Common Surgical Procedures
Sterilization Surgery
One of the most common sterilization approaches for dogs is spaying (ovariohysterectomy) which removes both the ovaries and uterus of female dogs, and neutering (castration), which involves removing the dog’s testicles. The sterilization procedure is one of the most common surgeries performed at this animal hospital.
Surgical Oncology
The surgical procedure remains the most frequently performed treatment for vet cancer patients. Surgical oncology often results in long-term control of the disease, helping your dog live longer.
Cataract Surgery
Cataract surgery usually requires a general anesthetic. A muscle relaxant is given to help the eye sit in the correct position during the operation. The cataract removal is called phacoemulsification.
Dental Surgery
There are many grounds why your dog may require veterinary dental surgery. Common veterinary dentistry treatments include removing growths, repairing dental defects, repairing jaw fractures, and tumor removal. Dental health is essential for the overall health of your dog.
Orthopedic Surgery
Veterinary orthopedic surgery pertains to any surgical procedures that fix broken bones, spines, joints, muscles, or torn ligaments. The primary goal of an orthopedic vet surgeon is to restore the placement of bones where they should be.
Cardiology Surgery
Canine cardiology surgery is the clinical field that treats a dog’s cardiovascular system. The goal is to address issues like valvular degeneration, dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), and congenital heart disease.
Veterinary Anesthesia
Anesthesia in animals resembles human anesthesia, but there are some differences. Local anesthesia is used for wound closure and removal of tumors. General anesthesia is widely used in major surgical procedures.
Caring for Your Dog After a Surgery
The majority of the post-op care for your dog will fall on your shoulder. These are some general precautions, yet you ought to always follow the discharge instructions of your vet if there are discrepancies.
Immediate Post-op Care
Your dog will be monitored by experienced nurses and veterinary staff in the recovery room, ensuring all vital signs are within normal range. Your veterinarian will notify you if your pet is ready to go home. In case of complications, your veterinarian will make the necessary post-operative plan. Before taking your dog home, understand every discharge directly from the vet.
Post-op Home Care
Keeping your pet in a quiet area is ideal since rest is crucial for your dog’s recovery. Your vet may recommend placing your dog in a dog crate for much of their recovery time. Do not leave a bone or a toy in the chest without supervision. During recovery, you should only permit your pet to go outside for elimination purposes.
Your dog will need painkillers; these pain relievers may affect their coordination. Antibiotics help protect the wound from getting an infection. Monitor surgical sites closely for infection, swelling, bruising or emitting a foul odor.
Follow-Up Schedule
Your pet will need to go back for a follow-up. During this appointment, the veterinarian will remove skin sutures or staples. Depending on the case, other instructions may include an x-ray or other tests to ensure that your dog is healing properly.
