Pet Surgery

Surgery Service

We welcome most surgical cases at Norton Road Veterinary Hospital. Routine surgeries performed include: spay, neuter, declaw, tumor removal and wound management. Many orthopedic procedures are offered as well. You can rest easy when your pet is under our care because we take patient care very seriously. We treat every pet as we would our own.

Each pet undergoes an examination before being anesthetized. Blood work is encouraged prior to any anesthetic procedure. Once this is reviewed, the doctor customizes an anesthetic protocol to meet the needs of each individual patient. Often, the same types of anesthetic used in human neonatal units are used in order to keep your pet safe. An IV is placed in order to administer supportive fluid therapy during the procedure as well as provide emergency access should it become necessary. A veterinary technician monitors your pets’ vitals the entire time as well as in the recovery area. Common tools used to help keep your pet safe include respiratory, oxygen and heart rate monitors. Blood pressure monitoring is commonly utilized as well, especially for fragile patients such as exotics. In the recovery area, every effort is made to minimize any pain or anxiety for your pet. Often, this includes being covered with a circulating hot air blanket, called a Bair Hugger, to keep them warm. Once your pet is fully recovered and comfortable, a doctor or a technician will call you with an update regarding your pet’s procedure. A time for your pet to go home will be confirmed at this time.

When do I bring my pet for surgery?

On the day of your pet’s scheduled surgery, drop off times are:

            Mon-Fri           7:30-8:00 AM

            Sat-Sun           8:00-8:30 AM

Don’t feed your dog or cat after midnight the night before surgery. They can have a small amount of water before arriving for their procedure. If your pet is on any medications, ask prior to your appointment for directions on giving them the day of surgery.

Bring all medications and a small amount of your pets’ food with you when you drop them off.

Do not fast rabbits, guinea pigs, chinchillas or other rodent species. Please bring food including hay with you for their stay. It’s very important for them to eat regularly.