Surgical

The health of your pet is our top priority. Before we can book in a procedure, whether a routine surgery like desexing or something different, it is necessary for our veterinarian to complete a general health and consider if a general anestheitc is suitable and safe for your pet before scheduling the surgery. This assessment typically involves a thorough physical examination, reviewing your pet’s medical history, and possibly conducting additional tests. This process helps us gather essential information about your pet’s current health status and enables us to tailor the surgical plan to meet their specific needs. It ensures that the surgery is performed under the best possible conditions.

Every surgical procedure comes with risks and benefits, this is why it’s important to understand the reasoning why your pet’s surgery has been recommended, and any potential complications.
We want to ensure your peace of mind and comfort regarding your pet’s surgery. In the days leading up to your pet’s surgical admission,  it’s helpful to start preparing to ensure recovery goes smoothly.
Take some time to review any instructions from your vet, such as dietary guidelines or adjustments to medications, if you notice anything unusual or changes to your pet’s health, like a cough or a change in appetite, reach out to the clinic.
It’s a good time to start planning for your pet’s post-surgery care, this includes arranging a quiet and comfortable space for rest, any special dietary requirements, and making decisions about post-op surgical suit vs cone. Being prepared in advance will help reduce stress and contribute to a successful surgery.

The day before your pet’s surgery, Newtown Veterinary Clinic will send you a text message with confirmation of your pet’s admit time and instructions on how to prepare for their procedure. The message will include the exact time to take away your pet’s food and water, to ensure they fast adequately before the surgery. If your pet is on medication and you’re unsure whether to give it, give the clinic a call and we can instruct you on what to do.
Keep in mind that not all pets need to fast before surgery, so be sure to follow the instructions in the message you receive. And if you notice anything unusual with your pet, like signs of illness or changes in behaviour, please let us know right away.

On the day of surgery, attend the clinic at your allocated admit time. A member of our nursing team will complete the admittance paperwork with you and explain the process. We’ll need to know about your pet’s recent health and confirm that you understand the procedure and its estimated cost. Once all of this information is confirmed you will then review and sign the anaesthetic consent form.
A representative can bring your pet into the clinic on the owner’s behalf, but please ensure they can provide legal consent and accurate information about the pet’s recent health.

Our veterinarians strongly recommend considering Pre-Anaesthetic Blood Testing on the day of surgery. This blood test is completed before the anaesthetic is administered to your pet, providing us with vital information, including:

• The most suitable medications and their correct dosage for your pet
• The appropriate duration for a safe administration of anesthesia
• How your pet is likely to metabolize and eliminate the anesthetic
• The likelihood of a swift and complication-free recovery from the anesthesia

This comprehensive test can uncover hidden or underlying health conditions that might otherwise go unnoticed. Identifying these issues beforehand allows us to tailor the procedure to your pet’s specific needs, significantly reducing the risk of complications.

Once the surgeon has finished your pet’s procedure a member of our Veterinary team will give you a phone call with an update. You will also be advised on the time that your pet can be collected to take home.
On discharge, you will be advised on the aftercare procedure. We will then follow with a post-operative appointment at 10-14 days or earlier if required.
If you have any concerns after the procedure give the clinic a call.