The Different Surgical Procedures in Dogs
Veterinary surgery is just one of the 22 veterinary specialties recognized in the US, Canada, and Europe. Those desiring to become board-certified should undertake a one-year clinical internship and three years of intensive training in a residency program. Under the surgical specialization are subspecialties that cater to different areas.
Common Surgical Procedures
Sterilization Surgery
The most typical sterilization methods for dogs are spaying (ovariohysterectomy) which removes both the ovaries and uterus of female dogs, and neutering (castration), which involves removing the dog’s testicles.
The sterilization procedure is one of the most typical surgical procedures performed in a veterinary hospital. Check out this “veterinarian near me” page if you’re looking for a reliable vet.
Surgical Oncology
The surgical procedure remains the most frequently performed treatment for veterinary cancer patients. Surgical oncology often results in long-term control of the disease, helping your dog live longer.
Cataract Surgery
Cataract surgery usually needs a general anesthetic. A muscle relaxant is given to help the eye sit in the proper placement during the operation. The cataract removal is called phacoemulsification.
Dental Surgery
There are lots of grounds why your dog may need vet dental surgery. Common dental procedures include removing growths, repairing dental defects, repairing jaw fractures, and tumor removal. Dental health is crucial for the overall health of your dog.
Orthopedic Surgery
Veterinary orthopedic surgery pertains to any surgical procedures that repair broken bones, spines, joints, muscles, or torn ligaments. The primary purpose of orthopedic surgery is to restore the positioning of bones where they ought to be. Visit websites like tendercareanimalhospital.com for more information regarding orthopedic surgery.
Cardiology Surgery
Canine cardiology surgery is the medical field that treats a dog’s cardiovascular system. The goal is to address issues like valvular degeneration, dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), and congenital heart disease.
Veterinary Anesthesia
Anesthesia in animals resembles human anesthesia, but there are some distinctions. Regional anesthesia is used for wound closure and removal of tumors. General anesthesia is widely used in major surgical procedures.
Caring for Your Dog After a Surgery
Most of the post-op care for your dog will fall on your shoulder. These are some general preventative measures, but you should always comply with the discharge instructions of your veterinarian if there are discrepancies.
Immediate Post-op Care
Your dog will be monitored by experienced nurses and veterinary staff in the recovery room, ensuring all vital signs are within normal range. Your veterinarian will notify you if your pet is ready to go home. In case of complications, your veterinarian will make the necessary post-operative plan. Before taking your dog home, make sure to understand every discharge instruction from the vet.
Post-op Home Care
Keeping your pet in a quiet area is ideal since rest is crucial for your dog’s recovery. Your vet may suggest placing your dog in a crate for much of their recovery time. Do not leave a bone or a toy in the chest without supervision. During recovery, the only time you should allow your pet to go outside is for elimination purposes.
In most cases, your dog will need painkillers; these pain relievers may affect their coordination. Antibiotics help protect the wound from getting an infection. Monitor surgical sites closely for infection, swelling, bruising or emitting a foul odor.
Follow-Up Schedule
Your pet will need to return for a follow-up. During this appointment, the veterinarian will remove skin sutures or staples. Depending on the case, other instructions may include an x-ray or other tests to ensure that your dog is healing properly.
