Surgical procedures aren't just for humans.

There are many reasons why your pet may need surgery during their lifetime. Some surgeries are elective, meaning that you choose for your pet to have them. A good example of elective surgery is spaying/neutering. Sometimes surgery is needed as part of the diagnostic process, for example, if they have an unusual mass inside their body that requires further investigation. And sometimes surgery is needed to fix a problem, like removing an intestinal obstruction. Whatever the reason for surgery, it can be a stressful time for owners.

As with most surgeries, the right preparations can significantly reduce the risk of complications and improve the overall outcome for your pet. Your vet at the Emergency Pet Hospital of Redlands will give you specific instructions to follow for your pet, but in the meantime, here's our guide to preparing for pet surgery

Make Sure You Attend the Pre-Op Visit

Pets need a pre-op appointment ahead of surgery just like we do. This appointment is designed to check their candidacy for anesthetic and to ensure that the risks don't outweigh the benefits of the procedure. Your vet at Emergency Pet Hospital of Redlands will also check your pet's general health at that time and make sure that everything is ok to go ahead. You can also ask any last-minute questions that you have.

Stop Any Medications as Advised by Your Vet

If your pet usually takes some medications, they may need to stop these temporarily ahead of the surgery. Your vet will advise you if this is the case for your pet and will also tell you how far in advance, they need to stop them, and when you should resume administering them.

Get Their Vaccinations Up to Date

This is especially important if your pet will have to stay in our pet hospital following their surgery as we encourage animals to be current with their vaccinations to receive this care. Being up to date with their vaccinations doesn't just keep them safe, but also prevents them from transmitting diseases to others. Usually, any booster vaccinations should be administered at least 5 days before surgery, but check with your vet in Ashburn, VA.

Let Them Rest the Day Before Their Surgery

Getting plenty of rest is essential for a speedy recovery, but you should start this at least 48 hours before the procedure. This is because a long walk or lots of exercise in the day or two before could make their muscles sore, which could increase any post-operative pain they experience. Instead, have a relaxed day with them at home.

Do Exactly as Your Vet Asks on the Day

The preparations on the day of your pet's surgery could vary depending on the type of surgery that they are having. However, your Redlands vet will have given you specific instructions to follow - such as those relating to not allowing your pet to eat or drink anything. Be sure to follow these precisely. Failing to do so could potentially prevent your pet from having surgery.

Prepare Your Home for Their Return

Depending on the type of procedure that your pet has, you may need to make some adjustments to your home to aid with their recovery. This includes moving their bed to be closer to the door, providing a quiet, safe space away from the noise and young children, or getting a special post-surgery diet ready. Ask your vet what preparations you should make for their return.

Try Not to Get Too Stressed

Animals are very good at picking up on human emotions, and if you seem stressed and upset, this can cause worry for your pet. Try and stay as calm, relaxed, and 'normal' as possible with them, particularly when you drop them off for their surgery.

For more on pet surgery, visit Goose Creek Veterinary Hospital at our office in Ashburn, VA. Call (571) 291-9110 today to schedule an appointment. For emergency services, visit The LifeCentre at Leesburg, Virginia, or call 703-777-5755.