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Summer Concerns and Dangers

Summer brings with it a time of special concerns related to warm weather activities, travel, increased prevalence of certain diseases, and parasites. It can be helpful to be aware of these risks so you know how to best protect your pet. More »

Dental Care Importance

Dental disease, what we can see with the naked eye and on x-ray, is a major cause of unrecognized pain for pets. Left untreated, dental disease can advance and cause kidney, liver and heart disease. More »

Veterinary Prescriptions & The Internet

Here's what you need to know about purchasing Prescription Drugs (ex. heartworm medication) for your pets over the Internet. More »

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Consumer Guide to Elective Surgery

Thank you for recognizing the need to spay or neuter your pet. Some people "shop around" for the best price on this surgery without the knowledge of why the cost may vary among veterinary practices. This guide was created to help you find the best fit between the veterinary practice and your expectations for the care of your pet.

Here are some questions to ask and why to ask them:

Q: Will my pet receive a complete physical examination prior to surgery?

This is important for a number of reasons. A thorough examination is the first defense against performing on an animal that may have infectious disease, heart murmur or be debilitated from parasites.

Q: What safety precautions will be taken with my pet during surgery?

While most surgery is uneventful, emergencies sometimes arise. Early detection of impending problems greatly aids our ability to intervene and correct the problem. A breathing tube should be placed on all anesthetized animals. This keeps the airway open and allows for supplemental oxygen or gas anesthesia as needed. A heart (EKG) and Oxygen monitor allows a surgeon to keep track of heart rate and rhythm as well as the amount of oxygen in the blood. The practice should also have a "crash box" handy which contains emergency drugs and supplies.

Q: What safety precautions will be taken with my pet after surgery?

Surgery patients lose body heat through anesthesia and the opening of the body cavities. If the patients get too cold the heart can be affected. Patient temperature should be monitored at regular intervals after surgery and supplemental heating provided as needed. Your pet's gum color, pulse and respiration should also be monitored.

Q: How will pain be controlled for my pet?

This is very important - surgery hurts! The anesthetic will not provide pain control once the pet wakes up. Oral pain control medication should be offered.

Q: Will I receive written post-surgical care instructions for my pet?

Aftercare of surgical patients is very important for proper healing. The hospital should provide written discharge instructions for your pet.