Anesthetic Procedures

There is more to keeping your pet healthy than just annual visits. Procedures such as spays and neuters, dentistry, or emergency surgeries can often be essential to the vitality of your pet.

The night before a scheduled anesthetic procedure, we ask that all animals please fast. This means no food or treats after eight o’clock p.m. the night before the scheduled procedure. Water throughout the night is okay. The morning of the procedure, please bring your pet to the clinic between the hours of seven am and nine am. Most out-patient surgeries will be able to go home between the hours of 3 pm and 5 pm that same day. We do ask, however, that you check with us on the status of your pet around twelve o’clock noon for an update and pick up time.

The night your pet comes home after an anesthetic procedure, certain precautions should be taken to ensure your pets comfort and safety. Here are some general guidelines for you to follow. If a veterinarian recommends different aftercare than the guidelines listed below, please do as they specify.

• FEEDING

The anesthetic may cause your pet to feel nauseous after their procedure. In order to help prevent vomiting, we recommend feeding ¼ of your pets’ regular amount of food and water intermittently this evening. Return to regular feeding schedule tomorrow.

• SUTURES

Most sutures can be removed within 7-10 days following the procedure, unless otherwise instructed by the doctor. Suture removals are performed during the hours of 8am-12pm and 2pm-5pm. No appointment is necessary unless you would like to address any concerns with the doctor.

• BATHS

Do not bath your pet 7-10 days after surgery. Sutures and/or bandages must be removed before bathing your pet.

• DENTISTRY

Feed soft food tonight and tomorrow. If your pet is on a dry kibble diet, pour a small amount of warm water over the food.