Pet Surgery

Pets need surgery sometimes just as we do. Bringing your pet in to undergo surgery can be difficult for you and your pet. This is why at East Longmeadow Animal Hospital we strive to meet the highest level of patient care while providing your pet with surgical diagnostics and treatment in our surgical suite.

Some of our common surgeries include but are not limited to:

• Routine spaying/neutering
• Mass removal
• Cystotomy
• Enucleation
• Hernia repair

Pre-Surgical Steps, Anesthesia, & Monitoring
To reduce patient risk, it is mandatory to run pre-surgical blood screens. This pre-surgical blood screen is an important step in the health of your pet during surgery. This screening is important as it can reveal an underlying illness or disease, especially in older pets. All patients are monitored with EKG leads and blood oxygen levels. They are supplemented with heat and IV fluids and their blood pressure is monitored.

Pain Management
Pain management is evaluated on a patient-by-patient basis to ensure comfort before, during, and after surgery. We strive to provide a comfortable recovery for your pet. When your pet is discharged, we may send additional pain medication for your pet at home. Our staff will go through the post-care procedure for your pet and dosage information on any medications.

Post-Surgery Care
When it is time for your pet to be discharged, our staff will provide you with detailed information with instructions on how to properly care for your pet, post-surgery. It is important to follow instructions to help assist your pet in their speedy recovery.

When should I spay/neuter my dog or cat?
Dogs: Typically dogs are neutered around six to nine months of age. If you have an adult dog, they can still be neutered. For canines, spay and neuter recommendations vary based upon breed and size of pet. Your vet will provide you with recommendations based upon the individual patient during an exam.

Cats: Kittens can be spayed or neutered as young as six months old. It is recommended that you spay or neuter your cat before they are five months old.