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Open Daily 7 Days a Week
Monday - Friday: 10:00am - 8:00pm
Saturday & Sunday: 8:00am - 6:00pm
Our Surgical Services
Bite Wounds and Laceration
Bite wounds and lacerations are common injuries that can cause pain, infection, and tissue damage. When these wounds are deep or severe, surgery may be needed to clean, close, and repair the affected area to promote healing and prevent complications.
Preparation: Before surgery, your pet will undergo an exam and may need blood work to ensure they’re healthy enough for sedation or anesthesia.
Recovery: After surgery, your pet will need rest and may require pain medication and antibiotics. It’s important to keep the wound clean and prevent your pet from licking or scratching the area. Follow-up visits help ensure proper healing.
C- Section (Cesarean Section)
A C-section is a surgical procedure to deliver puppies or kittens when a mother is unable to
give birth naturally. This can be a planned or emergency surgery, depending on the situation.
It’s performed to protect both the mother and her babies when labor becomes difficult or
dangerous.
Breeds at Higher Risk: Certain breeds are more prone to needing a C-section due to the size
or shape of their puppies (or kittens) and narrow birth canals. These include English Bulldogs,
French Bulldogs, Boston Terriers, Pugs, Chihuahuas, and Persian cats.
Is My Pet Pregnant? What to Look For
If you suspect your pet might be expecting, here are some common signs to watch for:
Change in Appetite: Your pet may start eating more or sometimes less during early pregnancy.
Behavioral Changes: Increased affection, restlessness, or nesting behavior (preparing a quiet, cozy space).
Weight Gain & Enlarged Abdomen: As pregnancy progresses, you’ll notice your pet’s belly getting bigger.
Nipple Changes: The nipples may become larger, pinker, or more prominent, sometimes with slight milk production.
Decreased Activity: Pregnant pets may seem more tired or less active than usual.
Morning Sickness: Just like humans, some pets may have occasional vomiting or nausea in early pregnancy.
Preparation:
When a C-section (Cesarean section) is planned or needed urgently, careful preparation is essential to ensure the safety of both the mother and her puppies or kittens.
Veterinary Exam and Diagnostics
Before surgery, the veterinarian will perform a thorough physical exam to assess the mother’s overall health. Blood tests may be done to check organ function and ensure she is fit for anesthesia. In some cases, imaging like ultrasound or X-rays help confirm the number, size, and positioning of the babies.
Fasting Instructions
If the C-section is planned and not an emergency, your pet will need to fast for 8–12 hours before surgery to reduce the risk of vomiting and aspiration during anesthesia. Water is typically allowed until the morning of the procedure unless otherwise directed.
Hospital Admission
On the day of surgery, you will bring your pet to the clinic where she will be admitted. Our team will take a detailed history and answer any last-minute questions you have.
IV Catheter and Fluids
Once admitted, a technician will place an intravenous (IV) catheter to deliver fluids and medications throughout the procedure. This helps maintain hydration and allows for quick administration of anesthesia and emergency drugs if needed.
Pre-Anesthetic Medications
Your pet may receive medications to help calm her and reduce pain before anesthesia. These also help make the anesthesia smoother and recovery easier.
Surgical Site Preparation
The abdomen will be shaved and thoroughly cleaned with antiseptic to reduce the risk of infection. This area is where the incision will be made to deliver the babies safely.
Anesthesia and Monitoring
General anesthesia is administered to keep your pet fully unconscious and pain-free during the procedure. Throughout surgery, a veterinary team closely monitors vital signs including heart rate, breathing, blood pressure, and oxygen levels.
Recovery:
After a C-section, both the mother and her babies need special care to ensure a smooth recovery.
Immediate Post-Surgery Care
Once surgery is complete, your pet will be closely monitored as she wakes up from anesthesia. She may feel groggy or disoriented for a short time, which is normal. Pain medication will be given to keep her comfortable.
Monitoring the Incision
The surgical site should be checked daily for redness, swelling, discharge, or any signs of infection. It’s important to prevent your pet from licking or chewing the incision, so an Elizabethan collar (cone) is often recommended.
Caring for the Newborns
If the mother is able, she will start nursing her puppies or kittens right away. We will guide you on how to monitor their feeding and behavior to ensure they are healthy and gaining weight.
Activity Restrictions
Limit your pet’s activity during the recovery period, usually about 10-14 days. Avoid running, jumping, or rough play to allow proper healing.
Follow-Up Visits
A follow-up appointment will be scheduled to check the incision site, remove sutures or staples if needed, and ensure both mom and babies are doing well.
When to Contact Your Vet
If you notice excessive swelling, bleeding, foul odor from the incision, loss of appetite, vomiting, or lethargy in your pet, please contact us immediately. These can be signs of complications.
Cystotomy
A cystotomy is a surgical procedure where the bladder is opened to remove urinary stones (also called bladder stones) or other blockages. This surgery is usually recommended when stones are too large to pass on their own or when they cause pain, infection, or block urine
flow. If left untreated, these stones can lead to serious problems like bladder damage or
urinary obstruction, which can be life-threatening.
How Do Urinary Stones Form?
Urinary stones develop when minerals in the urine clump together and form solid crystals.
This can happen for several reasons, including:
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Diet: Certain diets can increase the chance of stone formation.
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Dehydration: Not drinking enough water leads to concentrated urine, which encourages crystals to form.
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Urinary Tract Infections: Infections can change the urine’s environment, promoting stone growth.
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Genetics: Some pets are more prone to stones due to breed or inherited conditions.
When Is a Cystotomy Needed?
A cystotomy is typically needed when a pet has bladder stones or another type of obstruction that cannot be passed naturally. These stones can cause pain, difficulty urinating, blood in the urine, frequent urination, or even a complete blockage—especially in male pets. If medical management isn’t effective or the condition is urgent, surgery is recommended to remove the stones and relieve discomfort or prevent life-threatening complications.
How to Prepare Your Pet for Cystotomy Surgery
Proper preparation helps ensure a safe and smooth surgical experience for your pet. Here’s
what to expect before a cystotomy procedure:
Pre-Surgical Exam & Diagnostics
Before surgery, your pet will undergo a thorough physical exam and diagnostic tests. These
may include:
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Bloodwork to assess overall health and organ function
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Urinalysis to evaluate the urinary system
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X-rays or ultrasound to locate the stones and evaluate their size, shape, and number
If a urinary tract infection is present, your veterinarian may prescribe antibiotics before surgery.
Fasting Instructions
If the procedure is planned (non-emergency), your pet will need to fast for 8–12 hours before
surgery. This helps reduce the risk of complications while under anesthesia. Water is typically
allowed until the morning of the procedure—your vet will give you specific instructions.
Medications
Let your veterinary team know about any medications your pet is currently taking. Some may
need to be paused before surgery. Pain management or antibiotics may be started ahead of
time.
Day of Surgery
When you arrive at the clinic, a team member will check your pet in and review the procedure
with you. An IV catheter will be placed to provide fluids and administer anesthesia and
medications during surgery. Your pet’s bladder will be carefully prepped and cleaned prior to
making the incision.
After Surgery
Following cystotomy surgery, your pet will be monitored closely as they wake up from anesthesia. Pain medication and sometimes antibiotics will be provided to keep them comfortable and help prevent infection. Most pets go home the same day or the following day, depending on their condition and how they recover.
At Home Recovery
Here’s what to expect and watch for during recovery:
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Activity Restriction: Keep your pet calm and prevent running, jumping, or rough play for 10–14 days to allow the bladder and incision to heal.
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Incision Care: Monitor the incision daily for redness, swelling, or discharge. Use an e- collar if needed to prevent licking.
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Medications: Give all prescribed medications exactly as directed.
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Monitor Urination: Some mild straining or blood in the urine is normal for a few days. If your pet is unable to urinate, seems painful, or has worsening symptoms, contact your vet immediately.
Cherry Eye Repair
Cherry eye is a condition where a gland in your pet’s third eyelid becomes swollen and protrudes, appearing as a red or pink lump in the corner of the eye. While not usually painful at first, it can cause irritation, dryness, or long-term damage if left untreated. Surgery is often needed to reposition the gland and restore normal function.
Why Surgery Is Needed
The third eyelid gland helps produce tears, so it’s important to preserve it. Surgical repair involves repositioning the gland back into its normal location—not removing it—to help maintain healthy tear production and prevent chronic dry eye (keratoconjunctivitis sicca).
Preparation:
Before surgery, your pet will receive a physical exam and may need blood work to ensure they’re healthy enough for anesthesia. Fasting is typically required the night before the procedure. On surgery day, your veterinary team will guide you through the process. Once your pet is admitted:
An IV catheter will be placed in a leg vein for safe and quick access to administer
medications
Your pet will be started on IV fluids to maintain hydration and blood pressure during the
procedure
Pre-anesthetic medications (sedatives, pain relief, anti-nausea meds) will be given to
keep your pet comfortable
Your pet will be carefully monitored by trained staff before, during, and after anesthesia
During Surgery:
The surgery is performed under general anesthesia. During the procedure:
The prolapsed gland (the “cherry”) is gently repositioned back into its normal place
behind the third eyelid.
The surgeon creates a small pocket in the tissue to hold the gland securely, using delicate
sutures.
The gland is not removed to preserve normal tear production and reduce the risk of dry
eye later in life.
The procedure typically takes an hour, and many pets are able to go home the same day.
Recovery:
Your pet may be a little groggy the day of surgery but should return to normal behavior within 24 hours. You’ll receive detailed home care instructions, which typically include:
Eye medications (drops or ointment) to reduce swelling and prevent infection
An Elizabethan collar (cone) to prevent rubbing or scratching the eye
Oral medications such as pain relievers or anti-inflammatories if needed
Activity restriction for about 10–14 days to allow the eye to heal
It’s normal to see mild swelling, discharge, or redness for a few days. A follow-up exam will be
scheduled to ensure the repair is holding and healing properly.
Can Cherry Eye Come Back?
In some cases, the gland may prolapse again and require a second surgery. The risk of
recurrence is higher in certain breeds (e.g., Bulldogs, Cocker Spaniels, Beagles), but proper
technique and aftercare reduce this risk.
Diaphragmatic Hernia Repair
A diaphragmatic hernia occurs when there’s a tear or opening in the diaphragm—the muscle that separates the chest and abdomen—allowing organs like the liver or intestines to move into the chest cavity. This can make it hard for your pet to breathe and often requires emergency surgery.
Causes can include trauma (such as being hit by a car) or, in rare cases, a birth defect.
Preparation: If stable, your pet will undergo imaging (like X-rays) and lab work to confirm the diagnosis and assess overall health. In emergency cases, surgery may be performed immediately. Your pet may need oxygen support and stabilization before surgery.
Recovery: After surgery, your pet will be closely monitored during recovery, for pain management, and restricted activity. Some patients need to stay in the hospital for a few days. Follow-up care is essential to ensure proper healing and breathing function.
Digit Amputation
Digit amputation is the surgical removal of a toe and is typically recommended when a pet has severe trauma, infection, cancer, or a non-healing wound that cannot be treated with other methods. While it may sound serious, pets usually adjust very well and return to normal activity after recovery.
Preparation: Before surgery, your pet will receive a full physical exam, blood work, and possibly X-rays to assess the extent of the problem and ensure they are healthy enough for anesthesia. If the procedure is not an emergency, fasting is typically required the night before surgery to ensure safe anesthesia.
During Surgery:
Step 1: Anesthesia & Monitoring
Your pet will be placed under general anesthesia, ensuring they are fully asleep and feel no pain during the procedure. Throughout the surgery, a veterinary technician will closely monitor:
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Heart rate
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Blood pressure
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Oxygen levels
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Body temperature
An IV catheter is placed beforehand to administer fluids, anesthesia, and medications as
needed.
Step 2: Preparing the Surgical Site
The surgical area is clipped and thoroughly cleaned with antiseptic solutions. The leg is positioned to allow clear access to the affected toe. Sterile drapes are placed around the area to maintain a clean surgical field.
Step 3: Amputation
Using precise surgical technique:
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The ligaments, tendons, and bone of the affected digit are carefully dissected and
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removed.
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The remaining tissue is shaped to allow proper healing and weight distribution.
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Blood vessels are securely tied off to prevent bleeding.
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The incision is closed in layers using absorbable sutures internally and external sutures or staples for the skin.
Depending on the reason for the amputation (e.g., tumor or infection), the tissue may be sent to a lab for biopsy.
Step 4: Pain Control & Bandaging
Pain management is a top priority. Your pet will receive:
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Local anesthetic at the surgical site
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Post-operative injectable pain medication
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Oral pain meds and/or anti-inflammatories for continued relief at home
The foot is bandaged to protect the incision and minimize swelling.
Recovery:
After surgery, your pet will go home with pain medication, an e-collar (cone),
and bandage care instructions. Most pets recover quickly with rest and limited activity.
Follow-up visits are important to monitor healing and remove any sutures or bandages.
Enucleation
Enucleation is the surgical removal of an eye and is performed when the eye is severely damaged, painful, infected, or affected by cancer or glaucoma. While the idea of removing an eye can feel overwhelming, this surgery is often the best option to relieve pain and improve your pet’s quality of life. Most pets adjust very well to life with one eye.
Preparation: Your pet will have a full exam and blood work to ensure they’re healthyenough for anesthesia. Imaging or testing may be done to evaluate the eye and surrounding structures. If the procedure is not an emergency, fasting is typically required the night before surgery to ensure safe anesthesia.
What happens During Enucleation surgery?
Step 1: Anesthesia & Monitoring
Your pet will be placed under general anesthesia so they are fully unconscious and pain-free during the surgery. A veterinary technician will continuously monitor vital signs such as heart rate, blood pressure, and oxygen levels to keep your pet safe.
Step 2: Preparing the Eye Area
The fur around the affected eye is carefully shaved and the skin cleaned with antiseptic to create a sterile surgical area. The eye and surrounding tissues are then gently handled to prepare for removal.
Step 3: Eye Removal
The surgeon will carefully:
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Detach the muscles and tissues holding the eye in place
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Tie off blood vessels to control bleeding
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Remove the entire eyeball from the socket without damaging surrounding structures
If needed, the surgeon may also remove part of the eyelid or surrounding tissue depending on the condition being treated.
Step 4: Closing the Incision
Once the eye is removed, the muscles and skin are sutured closed in layers to promote healing. The eyelids are typically sutured together to create a smooth, natural appearance.
Recovery:
Initial Care: Your pet may have a soft bandage or protective collar (Elizabethan collar) to prevent them from rubbing or scratching the surgical site. This helps protect the area while it begins to heal.
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Pain Management: Pain medication and sometimes anti-inflammatory drugs will be prescribed to keep your pet comfortable. It’s important to give these exactly as directed.
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Activity Restrictions: Limit your pet’s activity for about 10-14 days. Avoid running, jumping, or rough play to prevent injury to the healing site.
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Incision Monitoring: Check the surgical area daily for signs of redness, swelling, discharge, or any unusual smell. Mild swelling and bruising are normal, but if you notice anything concerning, contact your vet.
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Follow-Up Visits: Your vet will schedule follow-up appointments to monitor healing and remove any external stitches if necessary.
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Adjustment Period: Most pets adapt quickly to having one eye, relying on their other senses. They generally return to normal activity and quality of life after healing.
GDV (Gastric Dilation Volvulus)
GDV, also known as bloat, is a life-threatening emergency where the stomach fills with gas and twists on itself. This prevents gas and food from escaping and can cut off blood flow to the stomach and other organs. GDV progresses rapidly and requires emergency surgery to save your pet’s life.
Why Does GDV Happen?
The exact cause isn’t fully understood, but it’s more common in large, deep-chested breeds like Great Danes, Dobermans, and German Shepherds. Factors like eating quickly, stress, and exercise right after eating can increase the risk.
Why is GDV an Emergency?
Because the twisted stomach blocks blood flow and traps gas, it can rapidly lead to tissue damage, shock, and death without immediate veterinary care.
Signs to Watch For:
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A swollen, hard belly
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Unproductive vomiting or retching
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Restlessness and pacing
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Excessive drooling
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Weakness or collapse
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Preparation: GDV is treated as an emergency. Your pet will be stabilized with IV fluids, oxygen, and pain management before undergoing surgery to untwist and secure the stomach (a procedure called gastropexy). Bloodwork and X-rays are performed quickly to confirm diagnosis and assess severity.
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Recovery: After surgery, your pet may be hospitalized for intensive monitoring and support, depending on your pet's recovery. Recovery includes pain control, gradual reintroduction of food, and activity restrictions. With prompt treatment, many dogs recover well, and gastropexy can help prevent future episodes.
GI Foreign Body/Obstruction
A gastrointestinal (GI) foreign body occurs when your pet swallows something they shouldn’t —like a toy, bone, sock, or other object—that gets stuck in their digestive tract. This blockage can prevent food and fluids from passing normally and may cause serious complications if
not treated quickly.
At our clinic, GI foreign body removal is one of the most common urgent surgeries we perform. Prompt veterinary care is crucial because a blockage can lead to severe pain, tissue damage, infection, and even life-threatening complications.
Common signs include:
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Vomiting (often frequent and sometimes severe)
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Loss of appetite
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Abdominal pain or swelling
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Diarrhea or constipation
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Lethargy or weakness
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Straining to defecate or pass stool
Preparation:
Before surgery, your pet will undergo a thorough physical exam and diagnostic tests like X-
rays or ultrasounds to locate the obstruction. We’ll place an IV catheter to provide fluids and
medications, including pain relief and antibiotics to reduce infection risk. Your pet will be
fasted (no food or water) before anesthesia to ensure safety during surgery.
During Surgery
The veterinarian will carefully remove the foreign object, and if needed, repair or remove any
damaged sections of the intestines. The digestive tract is then sutured to restore normal
function.
Recovery:
Recovery typically involves close monitoring for several days. Your pet may stay hospitalized
to receive IV fluids, pain management, and antibiotics. Appetite and bowel function will be
carefully watched. At home, a special diet may be recommended, along with limited activity
to allow healing. Follow-up visits are important to ensure full recovery and prevent
complications.
GI Resection and Anastomosis
GI resection and anastomosis is a surgical procedure where a diseased or damaged section of the intestines is removed (resected), and the healthy ends are surgically reconnected (anastomosed). This surgery is often performed to treat conditions like severe intestinal blockages, dead or damaged tissue, tumors, or complications from foreign body ingestion.
Preparation: Your pet will undergo diagnostic imaging (such as X-rays or ultrasound) and bloodwork to assess the severity of the issue and ensure they are stable for anesthesia. IV fluids, pain relief, and antibiotics may be started before surgery. Fasting is required prior to the procedure unless it’s an emergency.
Recovery: After surgery, your pet will stay in the hospital for close monitoring, pain management, and supportive care. Once home, they’ll need rest, a special diet, and restricted activity. Follow-up visits will ensure proper healing. Full recovery typically takes 10–14 days, depending on the condition.
Limb Amputation
Limb amputation is the surgical removal of a leg and is typically recommended when a pet has severe trauma, cancer, infection, or a non- functional limb causing pain or poor quality of life. While the decision can be emotional, most pets adapt remarkably well and go on to live happy, active lives on three legs.
Pre-Surgical Evaluation: Before surgery, your pet will undergo a full
physical exam and diagnostic testing (such as blood work and X-rays) to assess their overall health and ensure they are a safe candidate for anesthesia. If the amputation is due to trauma or cancer, additional imaging (like chest X-rays or abdominal ultrasound) may be recommended to check for spread of disease or other complications.
Arrival and Admission
Please arrive at the clinic during your scheduled time. Our staff will check your pet in, review their medical history, and answer any last-minute questions you might have. If you haven’t already, you’ll have a chance to discuss the procedure, anesthesia, and pain management plan with the veterinarian.
Pre-Surgical Preparation
Your pet will be examined one more time by our medical team. A dedicated technician will place an intravenous (IV) catheter to provide fluids and medications during surgery. This helps maintain hydration and allows us to quickly give anesthesia and pain relief.
The surgical site (the limb to be amputated) will be carefully shaved and cleaned to reduce the risk of infection. Your pet will be made comfortable and kept in a quiet, calm area while waiting for surgery.
Anesthesia
Your pet will be given anesthesia to ensure they are fully unconscious and pain-free throughout the surgery. Our veterinary team closely monitors their heart rate, breathing, oxygen levels, and blood pressure during the entire procedure.
The Surgery
During the surgery, the surgeon will carefully remove the affected limb, making sure to preserve as much healthy tissue as possible. The incision is then closed with sutures or staples.
Recovery from Anesthesia
After surgery, your pet will be moved to a recovery area where a nurse will closely monitor them as they wake up. Pain medications will be administered as needed to keep them comfortable. You may notice some grogginess or disorientation as the anesthesia wears off—this is normal.
Mastectomy
A mastectomy is the surgical removal of one or more mammary (breast) glands, typically performed to treat mammary tumors. This procedure is most common in unspayed female dogs and cats, as they are at higher risk for developing these tumors. Early surgical removal can be both life-saving and improve long-term quality of life.
Preparation: Your pet will undergo a physical exam, blood work, and possibly imaging (such as X-rays or ultrasound) to check for tumor spread and ensure they’re healthy for anesthesia. Fasting is required before surgery.
Recovery: After surgery, your pet may go home the same day or stay overnight for monitoring. Pain medication and antibiotics are prescribed, and an e-collar is used to protect the incision. Most pets recover within 10–14 days. Follow-up care includes monitoring for healing and possibly submitting the mass for biopsy to determine if further treatment is needed.