Most pets will need surgery in their lifetime. You may be taking your animal to be spayed or neutered, or they might need an operation to correct a health issue. No matter the reason, it’s important to work with a veterinarian to prioritize your pet’s health before, during, and after the operation. Below is a quick guide about what to expect throughout this process. 

Before

Prior to your animal’s surgery, the veterinarian will give you specific instructions to follow. This may include having your pet fast to prep them for anesthesia.  We want all pets to have an empty stomach while under anesthesia.  This is because they loose their swallowing reflex while anesthetized, and if they vomit at this time it could be aspirated into their lungs. It’s also important to know if you should give your pet their regular medications on the morning of their surgery or skip them for the day. The vet will also tell you when to bring your furry friend to the office for surgical prep, so come on time. 

During

After you bring your pet to the office and sign the necessary paperwork, the veterinarian and their team will perform a physical exam and check your animal’s vitals. Sometimes it is necessary to run bloodwork at this time to make sure that all medications can be administered safely.  Once they clear them for surgery, they begin the procedure. While under anesthesia, the staff will carefully monitor your pet’s heart rate, oxygen saturation, and the depth of anesthesia. After they finish, the team will call you with an update and an expected time for your pet to go home.

After

Just as humans require proper aftercare, your pet will also need special attention for successful healing. When you pick them up from the animal hospital, the veterinarian will talk to you about what this will entail. Many procedures require that the animal wears a protective e-collar and stays in one area of the house. This prevents them from licking their surgical site or injuring themselves. Ensure your pet takes any prescribed medications and avoids activity for as long as the vet recommends. Always call the office with any concerns. 

The team at O’Fallon Veterinary Medical Center treats your pet as an important part of your family, making the surgical experience as comfortable as possible. Located in Missouri, these veterinarians and their staff will communicate with you before, during, and after the procedure until your animal is fully healed. They also provide overall wellness care, pet boarding, and animal dentistry services to maintain their health. For more information on what they offer, visit the website or call (636) 272-3100 today.