Companion Animal Surgery: 10,000 Surgeries and Counting

Introduction

Companion animals, such as dogs and cats, are beloved members of our families. They provide us with unconditional love, companionship, and support. When our furry friends need medical care, we want to make sure they receive the best possible treatment. For many animals, surgery is an essential part of their healthcare.

Types of Companion Animal Surgery

There are many different types of companion animal surgeries, ranging from routine procedures to complex operations. Some of the most common types of surgeries include:

• Spaying and neutering: These are routine procedures that are performed to prevent unwanted litters and certain health problems.
• Dental surgery: This type of surgery is performed to treat dental problems, such as cavities, gum disease, and tooth extractions.
• Orthopedic surgery: This type of surgery is performed to treat bone and joint problems, such as fractures, luxations, and arthritis.
• Soft tissue surgery: This type of surgery is performed to treat a variety of soft tissue problems, such as hernias, cysts, and tumors.
• Emergency surgery: This type of surgery is performed to treat life-threatening conditions, such as trauma, bleeding, and infections.

Benefits of Companion Animal Surgery

Surgery can provide a number of benefits for companion animals, including:

• Relief from pain and suffering: Surgery can relieve pain and suffering caused by a variety of conditions, such as arthritis, dental problems, and injuries.
• Improved quality of life: Surgery can improve the quality of life for companion animals by allowing them to live more active and comfortable lives.
• Increased longevity: Surgery can help companion animals live longer, healthier lives by treating conditions that could otherwise be fatal.

Risks of Companion Animal Surgery

As with any medical procedure, there are some risks associated with companion animal surgery. These risks include:

• Anesthesia: Anesthesia is used to keep companion animals asleep during surgery. While anesthesia is generally safe, there are some risks associated with it, such as allergic reactions and respiratory problems.
• Bleeding: Bleeding is a potential risk during any surgery. However, the risk of bleeding is relatively low in companion animal surgery.
• Infection: Infection is another potential risk during any surgery. However, the risk of infection is also relatively low in companion animal surgery.

Cost of Companion Animal Surgery

The cost of companion animal surgery can vary depending on the type of surgery, the location of the surgery, and the experience of the surgeon. However, the average cost of companion animal surgery is between $500 and $2,000.

Choosing a Veterinarian

When choosing a veterinarian to perform surgery on your companion animal, it is important to consider the following factors:

• Experience: The veterinarian should have experience performing the type of surgery that your companion animal needs.
• Reputation: The veterinarian should have a good reputation among other pet owners and veterinarians.
• Cost: The cost of the surgery should be reasonable.
• Location: The veterinarian should be located in a convenient location for you.

Preparing for Companion Animal Surgery

There are a few things you can do to prepare your companion animal for surgery:

• Fast your pet: Do not feed your pet for 12 hours prior to surgery.
• Provide water: Make sure your pet has access to water up until the time of surgery.
• Inform your veterinarian: Tell your veterinarian about any medications your pet is taking and any health conditions your pet has.

After Companion Animal Surgery

After companion animal surgery, it is important to follow your veterinarian's instructions carefully. These instructions may include:

• Rest: Keep your pet calm and quiet for a few days after surgery.
• Medications: Give your pet any medications prescribed by your veterinarian.
• Diet: Feed your pet a bland diet for a few days after surgery.
• Activity: Gradually increase your pet's activity level as they recover.

Conclusion

Companion animal surgery can be a life-saving or life-changing procedure for our furry friends. By choosing a qualified veterinarian and following their instructions carefully, you can help your pet recover quickly and safely.

Additional Information

• The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) has a website with information on companion animal surgery: https://www.avma.org/resources-tools/pet-owners/petcare/surgery
• The American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) has a website with information on companion animal surgery: https://www.aaha.org/globalassets/02-publications-resources/owner-resources/petcare-information-sheets/higher-risk-surgery-in-older-pets.pdf